Grof® Breathwork: Homecoming

Grof® Breathwork, developed as “holotropic breathwork,” was born at Esalen in the 1980s by Stanislav and Christina Grof. This powerful practice offers participants the opportunity to enter

expanded states of consciousness through accelerated breathing, evocative music, and supported somatic release. 

Through this practice, we “journey” using our breath, opening to the psyche’s intrinsic intelligence for emotional release, physical relaxation, stress reduction, and profound numinous experiences. 

You will experience two complete Grof® Breathwork sessions — one as a breather (engaging your own deep inner work) and one as a sitter (compassionately supporting another’s journey). Sessions last approximately three hours and are preceded by a comprehensive preparation presentation on Friday night. 

Integration is supported through group sharing and reflection on the transformative aspects. Between sessions, we invite you to integrate your experiences through Esalen’s movement offerings and time in the stunning natural environment.

This is an opportunity to experience Grof® Breathwork on the land where the practice originated.

Recommended reading: When the Impossible Happens, by Stan Grof, Holotropic Breathwork, by Stan Grof, Watch: The Way of the Psychonaut