To an outsider, that room in Costa Rica probably looked like the scene of a midday slumber party.
The history of this breathing routine.
This method of breathwork was created by Czech psychiatristStanislav Grof, M.D., an early researcher of psychedelics drugs.
What happens during a session?
In a traditional session, after one breather finishes, they color ina mandalabefore trading places with their spotter.
There are typically multiple breather-spotter pairs in the room at once.
After everyone has a chance to breathe, the group gathers to share thoughts and reflections.
Headspace
What it feels like.
This breathing method changes the flow of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the body.
“Instead, you move into this altered state of consciousness.”
And everyone will experience this state a little differently.
I suppose it felt like dreaming while awake.
Over the course of the two-hour session, I never felt out of control; just the opposite actually.
I felt more in tune with my body than I had in a really long time.
At one point I started dancing to the music.
At another point I settled into a deep stretch.
Each movement took on new depth and exaggeration, which actually started to freak me out.
This tracks with what I’ve heard that other people feel during their respective journeys.
Only 2% said that they didn’t feel anything during the session.
Why does this happen?
While we are pretty certain that this breathing doessomethingto the body, nobody really knows what.
Her advice for anyone considering trying a new breathwork practice out for themselves?
“Be open to the mystery.
It’s an opportunity.
