In many countries, practitioners utilize this technique as a spiritual practice rather than a therapeutic one.
Oftentimes, this feeling of awakening can happen through some form ofcatharsis.
The technique was created to achieve psychedelic-like states without using psychedelic drugs.
Verywell / Catherine Song
Stanislav Grof is known as the co-founder oftranspersonal psychology(along withAbraham Maslow).
His work was conducted with patients experiencing psychiatric illness, cancer, and drug addiction.
What Does Holotropic Breathwork Do?
The practice of holotropic breathwork involves using a controlled breathing process to access altered states of consciousness.
The purpose is to obtain enlightenment of some kind.
The primary principle of this technique is that healing comes from within the person practicing the breathwork.
This premise is also intended to help the participant come away feeling personally empowered.
Some describe this experience as a more intense form of meditation.
From this perspective, the facilitator does not need to tell those who are practicing what to focus on.
Instead, participants are instructed to figure out what emerges for them as they do the work.
This will always be specific to the person at that particular time in their life.
In general, the concept of having a dream might be a more useful metaphor.
Benefits of Holotropic Breathwork
What is holotropic breathing good for?
Research to support the therapeutic benefits of holotropic breathing for psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety is lacking.
What Are the Dangers of Holotropic Breathwork?
There are some potential risks of participating in holotropic breathwork.
There is some concern that this technique causes distress in vulnerable individuals, such as those at risk forpsychosis.
In addition, there are significant medical risks of hyperventilation.
Indeed, this technique is controversial because it involves the possible amplification of symptoms in potentially problematic ways.
Who Should Avoid Holotropic Breathwork
This technique can evoke intense physical and emotional changes.
Therefore, there is a list of specific criteria that exists to advise against participation.
If you choose to participate in this technique, ensure that you are aware of the risks.
you’re free to practice this technique as part of group sessions, workshops, or retreats.
Individual sessions are also available.
The facilitator should guide and support you through the process.
you could also schedule private sessions, watch online videos, or utilize a breathwork app.
The intended breathing pattern is designed to be even so that the participant avoids hyperventilating.
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