The perceived impact of holotropic breathwork: An interpretive phenomenological analysis.

Holotropic Breathwork (HB), a self-exploration method, was studied in 12 Chilean adults aged 25-67 using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Ten major themes emerged, covering intrapsychic and relational aspects before, during, and after HB sessions. The findings support some existing HB theory and practice, but suggest that preparation, reasons for seeking HB, and post-session integration significantly shape its perceived impact. This implies that revising certain HB procedures could better support workshop attendees.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Holotropic Breathwork (HB) is a method of self-exploration developed by Stanislav and Christina Grof. Research has only just begun to investigate the effects of HB, while the possible influence of the context and other features of HB within the experience and its impact have not been studied in depth. This qualitative study investigated the perceived impact of HB on 6 women and 6 men (ages 25-67) in Chile, using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), an emergent method developed specifically to work with these types of subjective issues. Results revealed 10 major themes involving both intrapsychic and relational features prior, during and after HB. Results provide support for some elements of the existing theory and practice of HB, but, given the influence of preparation, the reasons for seeking HB, and the integration of experiences on the perceived impact of HB, revision of some HB procedures may provide better support for workshop attendees.