Holotropic States and Our Connection to Cosmic Consciousness
Holotropic experiences have the potential to help us discover our true identity and our cosmic status. ~ Stanislav Grof
The composite word holotropic, which literally means “moving towards wholeness”, from the greek words holos for “whole” and trepein for “moving in the direction of something,” was coined by one of the pioneers of transpersonal psychology, Stanislav Grof (or Stan Grof), to describe non-ordinary states of Consciousness. Grof distinguishes between two modes of consciousness: the hylotropic and the holotropic. The hylotropic mode relates to “the normal, everyday experience consensus reality“. In contrast, holotropic is characteristic of non-ordinary states of consciousness such as meditative, mystical, or psychedelic experiences.
Grof posited that the human psyche has an inherent drive toward wholeness and that non-ordinary states of consciousness, whether induced by psychedelics, breathwork, or other means, can facilitate a movement toward greater psychological integration and spiritual awakening.
For 1000’s of years humankind has entered into Holotropic States of Consciousness in many different ways, in different cultures around the globe. Adventuring in Holotropic states gives the opportunity to identify and remove blocks to our creative potential, the seed of the gold that we were born with to grow and offer to the world. It can give us a chance to reconnect with our purpose, our reason for being.
Some of the ways to access holotropic states include:
• Meditation
• Fasting
• Sleep deprivation
• Various forms of Breathwork
• Extreme sports
• Ecstatic dancing
• Chanting
• Tantra
• Using sacred medicines such as Blue Lotus, Peyote, Ayahuasca, Cacao, Mushrooms, etc.
• Synthesised medicines such as LSD
Ervin László, a renowned systems theorist and philosopher, proposes a fascinating theory of consciousness: He likens the human mind to a computer, interconnected with a vast cosmic information field. This field, he suggests, contains all information, past, present, and future. László’s theory offers a framework for understanding holotropic states of consciousness. It suggests that during these states, individuals may tap into this cosmic consciousness, accessing information and insights beyond ordinary perception. This could explain the profound, transformative experiences often reported by individuals who have undergone such states.
While László’s theory is not universally accepted by the scientific community, it has sparked significant interest and debate. It challenges traditional notions of consciousness, mind, and reality, opening up new avenues for exploration and understanding.
Why Pursue Holotropic States of Consciousness?
When we step outside of the hylotropic and into the holotropic, we are more capable of identifying creative blocks, limiting beliefs, detrimental habits, hidden emotions, buried desires, and untapped passions. Meeting ourselves where we are is just the first step. With deep self-knowledge comes the opportunity for difficult, yet necessary work healing and re-alignment. The rewards for this work are priceless. Imagine stepping into a version of yourself that knows who they are from the inside out? A version that feels absolute certainty in the path underfoot? A version at one with the universe?
This is the goal of Holotropic Breathwork and, subsequently, the goal of Rising Soul Alchemist. We aim to provide a safe space and guidance via tried and true techniques; assisting you in breathing through your most vulnerable places and stepping into your highest manifestation.
If you are seeking holistic healing and spiritual growth, there is no better avenue than the holotropic.
which has many parallels to HOlotropic Breathwork
and can assist clients in accessing holotropic states
