Holotropic Breathwork: What Are Its Benefits And How To Learn
Breathing is very important not only for ensuring human life. Through breathing, a connection is made between the spiritual world and the body of the individual. Since ancient times, deep breathing has been an important ingredient in religious and shamanic rituals.
What is Holotropic Breathwork
A special psychotherapeutic technique based on deep and rapid breathing is holotropic breathing. This method appeared in the seventies of the last century and was practiced at that time as an alternative method of psychedelic techniques. It was developed by Stanislav and Christina Grof. After psychedelic methods were banned, the Grofs began to use intense breathing to achieve a psychotherapeutic effect.
Holotropic breathing uses a combination of frequent intense breathing, special music and special sounds, as well as special body movements. Thanks to this combination, the effect of the same experiences is observed that the patient experiences during the psychedelic session. The difference is that this effect is not created under the influence of medication, but solely due to simple breathing.
Holotropic Breathwork Technique
Experts who practice the technique of such intense breathing argue that with its help it is possible to solve many problems of a psychological nature. Other experts believe that this technique is very dangerous to use.
The main disadvantages of Holotropic Breathing Technique:
- Due to intense breathing, a strong vasoconstriction and a sharp jump in blood pressure, a drop in blood hemoglobin and metabolic disorders can occur.
- One session causes the loss of several liters of carbon dioxide, which leads to unconsciousness or severe dizziness.
- If performed incorrectly, cerebral edema and death can develop.
- Even one wrong movement during a session can cause irreparable harm to the nervous system.
But on the other hand, the correct implementation of the technique and adherence to all the rules allows you to achieve unprecedented success. For example, even after one session, you will be able to:
- Get confident personal growth and getting rid of many psychological complexes.
- You will work through the deepest particles of negative experience without the manipulative influence of the therapist.
- You will recognize the roots of your psychological problem and fix it.
- You will be able to recover from psychosomatic diseases.
- You will get rid of bad habits and addictions, eliminate the effects of stress and chronic fatigue, you can regain the feeling inner harmony.
Usually, Holotropic Breathwork is practiced in groups under the constant supervision of an experienced specialist. If you are confident in your abilities, then you can do it yourself. But you still need the presence of an outsider who will monitor your condition. It is better not to eat before the start of the session. In the course of therapy, you can change the position of the body as you see fit.
It is important to choose the right music for your practice. At first, there should be a light melody that will stimulate breathing, then it should be replaced by a more persistent one. The third movement should consist of ethnic music with drums. Use a dramatic melody to get into a trance, followed by a relaxing, calm rhythm.
The duration of one session should be approximately 3 hours. To perform the technique correctly, you must close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Inhale should be sharp and exhale relaxed. You should use your upper chest as you breathe. In order not to get lost, imagine how all the negative goes away with the exhaled air, and kindness fills its place in the body. Breathe quickly and shallowly to get out of your trance. When relaxation occurs, breathe deeply through your nose.
