Ritual As Container for States of Non-Ordinary Consciousness

This presentation will share the lessons learned from Holotropic Breathwork and apply them to ritual.  Among other lessons, Holotropic Breathwork creates safety and witness so that participants can explore non-ordinary states of consciousness.

Holotropic Breathwork is one tool to introduce these states.  Holotropic literally means "moving toward wholeness". Developed by Stan Grof, M.D., and Christina Grof, leaders in the field of Transpersonal Psychology, Holotropic Breathwork combines insights from modern consciousness research, depth psychology and various spiritual practices. Holotropic Breathwork helps participants reach non-ordinary states of consciousness through deep breathing, evocative music and focused release work.

These non-ordinary states of consciousness activate the natural inner healing process of the individual's psyche, bringing him or her a particular set of internal experiences. With the inner healing intelligence guiding the process, the quality and content brought forth is unique to each person and for that particular time and place.

Rituals can also introduce and contain these states for healing, as connection to others and to the archetypal dimension, as well as the Divine, and to achieve ecstasy and joy. 

Stephen McDonnell, M.Div., LICSW, CAC is a pychotherapist in private practice in Washington, D.C.  Stephen was ordained a Roman Catholic priest and is currently the president of the Board of Directors of Dignity/Washington, a local chapter of the national organization for LGBT Roman Catholics.  Stephen has worked in the addictions recovery field, and as a sexual trauma specialist, and has worked in the field of HIV prevention.  His interests include holistic healing and integration, particularly bridging psychology and spirituality, and applying body and energy knowlege to his psychotherapeutic practice.  More is available at http://www.stephenmcdonnell.com