Demystifying Holotropic Breathwork

Introduction

Holotropic breathwork helps you increase self-awareness and deal with past traumas by using accelerated breathing and music. Even if you’ve previously engaged in breathing exercises, you might not be familiar with the term “holotropic breathwork.” Contrary to meditation and yoga, there is insufficient proof that holotropic breathwork is beneficial. Moreover, it can use to lessen the symptoms of various mental health issues.

Holotropic breathwork induces an altered state of consciousness (ASCs) or in simple terms a dream-like experience, by using rapid, controlled breathing patterns and rhythmic music.

After hallucinogens like LSD were deemed illegal in the United States in 1968, psychiatrists Stanislav and Christina Grof developed it in the 1970s. It differs from the majority of other western approaches to mental health because its foundation lies in the theory that primarily rejects treating psychological symptoms as a disease or disorder. The objective is to gain access to mental zones that are usually inaccessible under normal circumstances.

Uses and Benefits

You can choose holotropic breathwork if conventional mental health therapies haven’t helped. Victoria Livian Hypnotherapy promotes a holistic approach to help people find a renewed sense of living and lead a life full of positivity. Find the best remedies to your issues and satisfy your desires. The skilled and compassionate therapists at Victoria Livian are here to provide you with the best outcomes possible.

Many people who practice holotropic breathwork affirm that the method has helped them connect to higher levels of awareness and naturally recover from prior trauma, despite the absence of clinical evidence supporting it as a treatment for mental conditions.

The respective breathwork alleviates the symptoms of mental health illnesses, such as:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Depression
• Substance Use Disorder
• Anxiety
• Negative thinking
• Chronic stress
• Tension
• Avoidance behaviors

In a 2015 study, it was discovered that holotropic breathwork enhanced self-awareness and boosted participants’ temperaments. Some go so far as to call the experience a spiritual awakening that fosters growth on a personal level, improved mental clarity, and a rekindled sense of purpose.

More research is required since this was a small study with only 20 participants.

A 2011 investigation into holotropic breathwork as a potential type of treatment for those with substance use disorders produced some promising outcomes.

Holotropic breathing techniques

The most crucial advice for holotropic breathing is – never to try it alone. Only those trained in holotropic breathwork by the Grof Foundation, which involves a 600-hour training program, are permitted to lead one-on-one and group sessions.

You’ll most likely be partnered with a “sitter” for the duration of the session who will watch and offer support, but won’t interfere with your breathing unless you’re in high discomfort or experiencing a medical emergency. Victoria Livian Hypnotherapy center deals with its customers with a heightened sense of care and sensitivity by providing the satisfactory results.

It is a self-led experince in holotropic breathwork, and you are urged to focus on whatever rises to the surface. Trauma that requires healing will naturally surface during fast breathing, not under external control.

However, the “sitter” will first guide the group through the required steps:

For the duration of your breathing exercise, you need to lie down on a mat.

While the rhythmic music is playing in the background, close your eyes and start to breathe more profoundly, deeper, and more consistently. No pause should exist between inhalations and exhalations.

Keep your eyes closed while making any natural sounds or motions.

Keep breathing rapidly; this could go on for minutes or hours.

Switch roles with your partner at the appropriate time, who will now turn out to be the “breather.”

Following the breathwork, the group will discuss their feelings and create mandalas that artistically depict their experience. You are free to share any reflections or introspection; the practitioner won’t interpret them.

2 to 3 hours is the typical length of sessions.

Precautionary Advice

Holotropic breathwork might have some physical side effects, so proceed with caution if you decide to give it a try.

Some experts advise consulting a conventional talk therapy. It is   because holotropic breathwork can be an intense experience that triggers unsettling emotions.

Accelerated breathing can result in a drop in carbon dioxide and have serious adverse effects on the body, including:

• Fainting
• Dizziness
• Breathing difficulty
• Weakness
• Limb numbness
• Rapid heart rate

• An illness for which you are on medication
• panic attacks
• psychosis
• Cardiovascular conditions or heart attack
• Glaucoma
• Osteoporosis
• Seizures
• Recent surgery or injury

Womens who are conceiving or lactating should avoid the holotropic breathwork process.

At least in terms of the clinical study, the conclusion about the validity of holotropic breathwork is still pending. As discussed, some studies shows encouraging results.

Holotropic breathwork could be a beneficial alternative if you’ve tried traditional mental health treatment without success and are struggling with prior trauma, chronic stress, or substance abuse.

Reach out to Victoria Livian Hypnotherapy center to further discuss the risks and potential benefits. Consult the expert therapists today and take guidance from them.