What is Transpersonal Breathwork?

Transpersonal Breathwork is a powerful, guided breathing experience designed to help you access deeper insight, emotional release, and personal clarity—without the use of any substances. Grounded in decades of clinical and psychological research, this approach was developed by Dr. Stanislav Grof and his late wife Christina as a safe and natural way to explore non-ordinary states of consciousness.

The process combines deep, intentional breathing with evocative music, supportive facilitation, and time for integration. It's done in a safe group setting, with a trained facilitator guiding the experience and a partner who supports you throughout your session.

For many people, it’s like opening a door to a part of themselves that’s been waiting to be heard. This is not about “figuring things out” with your mind—it’s about listening to your body, emotions, and inner wisdom in a new way. Some describe it as “years of insight in a few hours.”

Here are some additional frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Transpersonal Breathwork.

What is the overall experience of Transpersonal Breathwork like?

You’ll be welcomed into a grounded and supportive environment. Each session includes a brief introduction to the process, followed by a deep breathing journey with music. Afterward, there’s time to reflect through drawing or journaling, and then a chance to share your experience in a safe group setting (only if you choose).

What is a session of Transpersonal Breathwork like?

You’ll be paired with a partner and take turns in two roles: breather and sitter. When you’re the sitter, your job isn’t to fix or interpret anything—it’s simply to be present. You’ll offer quiet support, maybe a blanket or water if needed, and learn how powerful it can be to hold space for someone without trying to solve anything. Many participants say this role is just as transformative as the breathwork itself.

When it’s your turn to breathe, you’ll lie comfortably on a mat with your eyes covered, guided into focused, deeper breathing while music plays. The breath and the music work together to help you quiet your thinking mind and access a deeper, more intuitive part of yourself. You might feel physical sensations, emotional release, or visual imagery—every session is different, and there’s no right or wrong way to experience it.

You’re not alone. Trained facilitators are there to ensure you feel safe and supported throughout the entire journey. The breathwork lasts about 2–3 hours, and toward the end, you may be offered simple, optional bodywork to help release lingering tension or ground your experience.

Afterward, you’ll have time to reflect—through quiet journaling, drawing a mandala, or simply resting. This session isn’t about pushing for a breakthrough. It’s about creating space for something real to rise—clarity, energy, or even just the sense that you’ve reconnected with yourself in a way that’s long overdue.

What kinds of experiences do people have in Breathwork sessions?

Everyone’s experience is different. Some people feel emotional release or gain clarity on a big life question. Others may revisit important moments from their past or have deeply peaceful and calming experiences. Whatever comes up, it’s welcome—and it’s all part of the process. The experience can be powerful, but you’re always in control. You can slow your breathing or stop anytime. Our trained facilitators and your partner will be there to help you feel grounded and supported throughout. 

What is bodywork? Will I be touched?

Near the end of your breathwork session, a facilitator may gently check in with you about how you’re feeling—especially if you’re noticing any tension, tightness, or strong emotions lingering in your body. If you’re open to it, we may offer simple, optional bodywork to help you release or ground what’s still present.

Bodywork in this context isn’t massage—it’s a supportive, cooperative touch designed to help you stay connected to your experience. Sometimes it’s as light as holding a hand or placing a hand on your back. Other times, if you’re working through something more intense, it might involve applying deeper pressure—always with your full consent and active participation.

The goal is never to “fix” anything, but to help you safely move through what’s already ready to shift. You’re in control at every step, and nothing happens without your clear agreement. Many people find this part of the process deeply grounding—and often surprisingly healing.

What is the effect of the bodywork?

One of the unique and powerful aspects of Transpersonal Breathwork is that it helps reconnect your mind and body, especially in the places where stress or old experiences may still be stored.

We all carry tension. Sometimes it's from obvious events—like stress, illness, or injury. Other times, it’s more subtle, like moments when we needed comfort but didn’t get it. Even when something has healed physically, it can still leave an emotional imprint that lingers quietly beneath the surface.

Bodywork offers a chance to bring those feelings forward and work through them—not by analyzing or explaining, but by letting your body express and release what it’s ready to let go of. Whether it’s a simple hand on your back or the feeling of being held, this kind of support can be unexpectedly powerful. With consent and care, it helps you access the deeper healing your body may have been waiting for.

What about sexual feelings?

It’s not uncommon for strong emotions to surface during breathwork, including sexual feelings. In this context, they often stem from deeper emotional layers like connection, vulnerability, or past experiences.

If this happens, it’s simply part of your process. You’re invited to acknowledge and move through whatever arises without judgment. While expressions of emotion are welcome, all participants and facilitators are committed to creating a safe, respectful container, so these feelings are never acted on or reciprocated during the session. It’s about allowing space for what needs to surface and supporting your healing with care and boundaries.

Is this like therapy?

It’s not psychotherapy, but it can complement it beautifully. Breathwork is a tool for self-discovery and growth. Many people find that it brings clarity and insight that can deepen their existing personal or therapeutic work.

Is Transpersonal Breathwork like taking psychedelics?

While experiences occasioned by Transpersonal Breathwork can evince the same qualities and intensities of psychedelic states of consciousness, no drugs or other substances are used in any breathwork sessions.

How do I prepare?

You’ll complete a brief health intake form before the retreat, and we’ll guide you through everything else when you arrive. There’s nothing special to prepare—just bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore.

Is Transpersonal Breathwork safe for everyone? 

Pregnant women, persons with cardiovascular problems, glaucoma, epilepsy, or an unresolved history of psychiatric hospitalization are advised to avoid Transpersonal Breathwork. If you have any questions, please contact us before registering. 

What are the benefits of Transpersonal Breathwork?

Transpersonal Breathwork offers a powerful way to access insight, clarity, and emotional release that often goes beyond what’s possible in everyday thinking or even traditional talk therapy.

By working with the breath, music, and safe group support, you create the conditions for your mind and body to tap into a deeper intelligence—what many call the “inner healer.” People often walk away from sessions with a clearer understanding of what’s holding them back, a sense of resolution around old wounds or patterns, and a stronger connection to their values, purpose, and inner strength.

Whether you're navigating a life transition, feeling stuck or disconnected, or simply craving space to reflect and realign, this work can meet you there—and help you move forward with more ease and authenticity. Many participants also say it complements and deepens other personal growth practices, including therapy, mindfulness, and coaching.

Will I be expected to share my experience?

Sharing is always optional. You’ll be invited to reflect on your experience through drawing or journaling, and then to join a group circle—but you only share what feels right to you.

What if I don’t have any big insights?

Sometimes breathwork leads to big emotional releases, other times it brings calm, peace, or subtle shifts in awareness. All of it is valuable. The real work is in showing up and listening to yourself with honesty and care.

What if I’m skeptical or unsure?

That’s okay. You don’t have to believe in anything specific. All we ask is that you come with an open mind and a willingness to explore. You’ll be supported no matter what.

What kind of support is available during the retreat?

Our facilitators are experienced and compassionate. In addition to the group sessions, you’ll have opportunities to speak one-on-one if you want additional guidance or support.

How is this different from a breathwork class at a yoga studio?

Transpersonal Breathwork is a longer, deeper experience that includes music, space for movement and expression, and time for reflection and integration. It’s also held within a carefully held group container, which creates an added sense of safety and connection.

Do I have to “let go” or have a cathartic experience for it to work?

Not at all. Some people have quiet, internal journeys that are just as meaningful. There’s no right way to do this—you’ll receive exactly what your system is ready for.

What kind of integration support is offered after the breathwork sessions?

You’ll have time to rest, journal, or create art, and we’ll gather as a group to reflect together. We also offer integration practices like gentle movement, nature walks, and creative exercises throughout the retreat.

Why would I do something this intense on vacation?

Because sometimes the best reset isn’t just rest—it’s real insight. This retreat gives you the space to reconnect with what matters most, gain clarity, and return home with energy and intention. It’s not just a break from life—it’s a chance to reclaim it.

Do you provide ongoing support?

The program facilitators will be available to answer questions and address ongoing concerns. Additionally, a post-retreat program will be offered to support ongoing integration and breathwork.