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Holotropic Breathwork
Holotropic Breathwork is a very powerful approach to self-exploration and healing. It integrates insights and knowledge from modern consciousness research, anthropology, various depth psychologies, transpersonal psychology, Eastern spiritual practices, and mystical traditions of the world. Breathwork or Breath Therapy is best described as a highly personal, experiential process utilizing breathing techniques to clear out physical, mental and emotional blocks or stresses. From the very ancient times onwards, breath and breathing has been held powerful and sacred by practically every culture in history. The name Holotropic means literally "moving toward wholeness" (from the Greek "holos"=whole and "trepein"=moving in the direction of something).
The process itself uses very simple. It is usually conducted in a very formal setting. Workshop or classrooms are the ideal setting for giving instructions. Before the breathwork session begins breathwork facilitator may provide tips to the participants and answer questions. Process combines accelerated breathing with evocative music in a special set and setting. With the eyes closed and lying on a mat, each person uses their own breath and the music in the room to enter a non-ordinary state of consciousness that is comparable to the state obtained by psychedelic medications. Upon the instruction of the facilitator the breather begins breathing faster. The speed of the breathing process is up to the breather to decide. This state activates the natural inner energy of the individual's psyche, bringing him or her a particular set of internal experiences. With the inner healing energy guiding the process, the quality and content brought forth is unique to each person and for that particular time and place and may not be repeated. While recurring themes are common, no two sessions are ever alike in all respects.
There are additional elements of the process which include focused energy release work and mandala drawing. Holotropic Breathwork is usually done in groups, although individual private sessions are also possible. During the class session, everyone pairs up with a partner who takes turns. Each person in the pair takes works breather and a sitter and then alternates the roles. The sitter provides emotional and physical support to the breather. Sitters caring and supportive role provides the breather the feeling of safety comfort and love.
More resources on breathwork
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