Welcome To Your Holotropic Double Breathwork Retreat
26 – 29 October 2023
For 1000’s of years humankind has entered into Holotropic States of Consciousness (HSC) in different ways, in different cultures around the globe. Why? For the purpose of connecting with their own inner wisdon, for inspiration and for healing, for their own benefit and for the benefit of the tribe.
Many people report, and it has been my personal experience, that journeying in HSC has been instrumental in helping them to connect with who and what they truly are and with what their lives are about.
It can be incredibly empowering as it all comes from within.
Preparation
One of the things that we’ve learned about this work is that the process begins as soon as you commit to coming to the breathwork. How you prepare yourself can really support your experience.
- things to consider when working in Holotropic States
- what you could do beforehand and when you get back so you get the most from your experience
- one of the tools that can help you make meaning of your experience
Zoom preparation session
On Sunday 22 October @ 7pm (BSTT) – you will need to attend an important 2 hour preparation Zoom session to build the container and the safety for individuals and the group.
Your link to join is here.
You will meet your fellow travellers and we will be talking about:
- the format and what a session looks like
- what can come up in a session and why
- how you can get the most from your session
- the different roles and responsibilities of you the breather, your sitter and the facilitator
- the 4 Holotropic breathwork agreements that help make the session safe for all involved
Hopefully you will understand that you will not be able to participate if you do not attend this preparation session. There will be no time to go over it at the start of the retreat with you.
Leading up to your retreat
You might notice what catches your attention such as your thoughts, dreams and synchronicities – they could be significant
Develop a deeper connection with your reasons, intentions and motivations for coming.
Eat light and healthy foods, especially for a couple of days before.
We ask that you refrain from using any mood or consciousness altering substances, including alcohol, for 48 hours beforehand.
Try and plan some “Me” time, especially if you are living in a demanding environment before you come.
Plan some “Me” time for when you go back so you are not diving back into the busy-ness of life on your return. You might want to book a massage or a bodywork class or integration session with a recommended transpersonal therapist.
The venue for your retreat is Holy Rood House YO7 1HX. Please arrive from 4pm for a cuppa, an orientation to the space and a settling in. We aim to be in circle for 5.30pm.
The event completes with lunch at 12.30 on Sunday.
Getting to Holy Rood House
The nearest airport is Leeds/Bradford.
There is a rail station in Thirsk.
What to bring:
- Your curiosity and intention
- You may wish to place something that holds significant meaning to you on the altar in the breathing room
- Slippers for the house
- Blanket
- Loose comfortable clothing – your body temperature can fluctuate through the session
- Unscented deodorant – please avoid using aftershave/perfume as your senses can be heightened in the process and can pull you out of the experience
- Water bottle – filtered water available on tap
- Journal/note book
Post Session Follow-up
On Sunday 5 November @ 7pm Mark will be holding space for a follow-up Zoom integration circle which is included in your retreat fee. We strongly recommend that you attend to support your integration process. You will be sent a link immediately after your retreat.
Infection protocol
This work with its deeper and faster breathing can be fertile ground for airbourne viruses. If you develop cold or flu symptoms within 4 days of the event we ask that you do not attend. You will be offered a place on another event.
We may ask you to you obtain a lateral flow testing kit for testing on arrival at the venue. If you test positive you will be expected to leave.
Considerations for Working in Holotropic States?
In this video (click the image to the right) I explain Holotropic States and the considerations you might want to make when you work in that territory.
I encourage you to watch it before your session and it will hopefully support you further in your preparation and provide some further context for your experience.
Awareness Positioning System
This is one of the self enquiry tools that we use in breathwork to orientate ourselves in the experience. In the video to the left (click image) Tav Sparks describes the tool he created in the context of watching a movie. When listening to it, transpose watching a movie with watching your experience in the breathwork session – its the same process.
Caledonian Holotropic Retreat Fund
The fund was set up to provide a resource for those who need financial support in attending an event. Donations are very much welcomed and utilised.
Wishing you a conscious preparation
We look forward to holding space for you
May we be well
May we be whole
May we live in deep peace
Mark & Deb