What is Holotropic Breathwork & How Is It Used?

Overview

The goal of holotropic breathwork, a therapeutic breathing technique, is to promote emotional healing and personal development. There are claims that it causes altered states of consciousness. The procedure entails rapid breathing for a short while up to many hours. As a result, the body's carbon dioxide and oxygen concentrations are altered. Someone with training in this method of emotional release will lead you through the practise.

The session includes music, which is a crucial component of the approach. You'll be asked to creatively reflect your experience after a session, usually by creating a mandala. Also, you will be urged to share your experience. You won't have your reflection translated. Instead, you can be asked to go into more detail about some things.

This method seeks to assist you in improving both your psychological and spiritual growth. Also, there may be physical advantages to holotropic breathing. The entire procedure aims to stimulate your body's inherent healing ability.

Why Is It Used

According to some sources, holotropic breathing can promote benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual recovery. It is believed to have the power to promote self-awareness and foster a happier view on life. There are many ways you can use it to assist your personal growth.

It is said that the practise enables you to transcend your physical self and ego and connect with your spirit and true self. It enables you to establish stronger connections with others and the environment. Many conditions can be treated by holotropic breathing, including:

• Depression.
• Stress.
• Addiction.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder.
• Migraine headaches.
• Chronic pain.
• Avoidance behaviours.
• Asthma.
• Premenstrual tension.

Some people have used the technique to get rid of negative thoughts, including the fear of death. They’ve also used it to help manage trauma. The practice helps some people to find new purpose and direction in their lives.

What Does The Research Say

A 1996 study combined the holotropic breathing technique with psychotherapy over six months. People who participated in the breathwork and therapy significantly reduced death anxiety and increased self-esteem compared to those who only had therapy.

A report from 2013 documented the results of 11,000 people over 12 years who participated in holotropic breathwork sessions. The results suggest that it can be used to treat a wide range of psychological and existential life issues. Many people reported significant benefits related to emotional catharsis and internal spiritual exploration. No adverse reactions were reported. This makes it a low-risk therapy.

A 2015 study found that holotropic breathing can bring about higher levels of self-awareness. It may help to positively make changes in temperament and development of character. People who were more experienced with the technique reported less tendency to be needy, domineering, and hostile.

Is Holotropic Breathwork Safe?

Holotropic breathwork has the potential to bring about intense feelings. Because of the strong physical and emotional releases that may arise, it’s not recommended for some people. Talk to your doctor before practicing this type of breathing if you have, or have a history of:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Angina
• Heart attack
• High blood pressure
• Glaucoma
• Retinal detachment
• Osteoporosis
• Recent injury or surgery
• Any condition for which you take regular medications
• History of panic attacks, psychosis, or disturbances
• Severe mental illness
• Seizure disorders
• Family history of aneurisms

Holotropic breathwork is also not recommended for pregnant women or breastfeeding women

Holotropic breathwork may bring about intense emotions and painful memories that could worsen symptoms. Because of this, some professionals recommend that it be used in conjunction with ongoing therapy. This gives you the chance to work through and overcome any issues that arise. Most people practice the technique without any adverse side effects.

How Do You Do Holotropic Breathwork

It is advised that you practise holotropic breathing under the supervision of an experienced facilitator. The encounter may be emotionally charged and passionate. The facilitators are available to help you with anything that could come up. Holotropic breathwork is occasionally provided under the direction of qualified medical personnel. Holotropic breathing can also be incorporated into a counselling therapy programme.

Group sessions, workshops, and retreats are all options for sessions. Furthermore offered are private sessions. Which session type is ideal for you can be determined by speaking with the facilitator. You will be supported and guided throughout the process by your facilitator.

Key Takeaway

If you’d like to try holotropic breathing, seek out a trained facilitator who can guide you in the process. These facilitators are often psychologists, therapists, or nurses, which means they’re also licensed to practice. Having a licensed and certified practitioner would be the best choice. Make sure you’re aware of what you may experience during your session. You may wish to set your intentions beforehand.

If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor or facilitator before completing your session. You may wish to use this technique to complement or enhance your own personal mental, spiritual, or physical journey.