What is holotropic breathing?
The term “holotropic” is composed of the Greek words for “whole” (holos) and “going toward something” (trepein), and roughly means “moving toward wholeness.”
Czech psychotherapist Stanislav Grof said that psychedelic drugs such as LSD could be used to achieve a mind-expanding state in which mental, psychosomatic, and psychiatric disorders and diseases could be explored and cured. Since the use of LSD was banned in most countries, Grof and his wife developed holotropic breathing in the 1970s to induce a similar healing state of consciousness.
Holotropic Breathing: Instructions
Holotropic breathing is usually done in groups, with participants working together in pairs: They take turns in the role of the breather (who lies on the floor and breathes with eyes closed) and the facilitator. The whole thing is to be supervised by trained “facilitators”.
Perinatal experiences are considered particularly important. They reflect the pregnancy experienced and the birth process. According to Grof, problems during birth can lead to psychological disorders. Reliving them should lead to the resolution of negative experiences and imprints. The biological birth process is a theme frequently used by Grof.
The breather, while in this special state of consciousness, is allowed to move and assume any position he wishes, if he so desires. The facilitator makes sure that he does not hurt himself.
A holotropic breathing session lasts at least three hours. Afterward, the experience is shared in the group or processed through creative techniques such as painting. Later in the day or the next day, the two partners switch roles.
Holotropic Breathwork: Risks
Hyperventilation causes the level of carbon dioxide in the blood to drop. This causes the blood vessels to constrict, which can lead to an undersupply of oxygen. At the same time, the body’s acid-base balance shifts, which can cause cramps, dizziness and fainting, among other things.
Holotropic breathing should also be avoided in cases of physical injuries, recent surgeries, and generally debilitating illnesses.
Holotropic Breathwork: Criticism
Many therapists criticize that holotropic breathing is no substitute for adequate psychotherapeutic care. Traumatization, personality disorders, and other psychological ailments could be exacerbated by negative experiences during holotropic breathing.
In addition, there is no specific training for individuals who wish to offer holotropic breathing. Thus, sessions are held without professional guidance. In case of unexpected complications, such as hyperventilation spasm, there is no doctor present.