Practice · Breath
Holotropic Breathwork
Holotropic Breathwork is a breathing practice developed by Stanislav and Christina Grof that uses faster, deeper breathing, evocative music and focused bodywork to reach non-ordinary states of consciousness for self-exploration.
How it works
Participants usually work in pairs: one breathes while the other sits as a supportive witness, then they swap. Sessions last two to three hours, guided by trained facilitators, and close with mandala drawing and a sharing circle to begin integration.
The name comes from Grof's term holotropic, oriented toward wholeness. The practice grew out of his decades of consciousness research as a breath-based route to the states his earlier work explored.
Who it's for
People drawn to deep self-exploration and non-ordinary states without substances, and those interested in the transpersonal end of the Breath dimension. It is an intense experience and works best with careful preparation and integration afterwards.
What to know before you start
Holotropic Breathwork is not suitable for everyone. It is generally advised against during pregnancy and with cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, glaucoma, epilepsy, recent surgery or some psychiatric conditions. Practice only with facilitators trained in the method, after screening.
Facilitators in Breath
On the map
Holotropic Breathwork belongs to the Breath dimension of the Holotropic Map of Human Experience. How the dimensions fit together is described in the frameworks behind 21 Dimensions.
Related practices: Wim Hof Method, Coherent Breathing, Somatic Experiencing
Where are you on the map?
See which dimensions are already alive in you and which are still open.
Map Yourself