The Holotropic Series 

The YAWN - When The Body Says "YES"

Irene de Caso PhD & Francesc Guinart & Basia Zieniewicz

This is a promotional series of webinars for Grof® Breathwork: A HOLOTROPIC Retreat Weekend in Epping Forest

The Holotropic Series: Psyche Snacks for Holotropic Hungry 

What actually happens when we access non-ordinary states of consciousness (NOSC)? And why does it so often feel like the body knows the way, long before the mind catches up? 

The Holotropic Series is a collection of bite-sized webinars exploring the fascinating terrain of Holotropic and Grof Breathwork (and psychedelic therapy?) and the revolutionary cartography of the psyche developed by Dr. Stanislav Grof—psychiatrist, LSD researcher, and quite possibly the Carl Jung of expanded states. 

Whether you're completely new to this work or you've already hyperventilated your way into the cosmos and back, this series offers intelligent, experiential, and surprisingly down-to-earth insights into what makes Grof’s approach to NOSC so unique. We explore the principles, patterns, and poetic messiness of the deep psyche: from COEX systems to neurogenic tremors, energetic yawns, and the mysterious intelligence that moves us in non-ordinary states. 

This isn’t therapy as you know it—it’s a reunion with your inner healer on its own terms. You’ll also meet some of the trusted facilitators, peers and fellow travellers who are bringing this work to life across the UK and Europe—each with their own unique lens on the mapless territory of expanded states.

THE YAWN: When The Body Says “Yes”

Is yawning just a sign of boredom—or an ancient neurological cue that your body is preparing for a deeper journey? In this webinar, we’ll explore The Yawn as more than a reflex. You’ll discover how it’s actually a subtle, involuntary release mechanism tied to regulation of the autonomic nervous system, the disinhibition of energy, and a gentle portal into expanded states of consciousness. 

Through the lens of Grofian psychotherapy, neuroscience, and somatic energetics, we’ll track the yawn’s role in softening the ego’s grip, helping us transition into expanded states. You’ll learn why it’s often the very first thing that happens in a breathwork session—and what it’s whispering to you about your readiness to let go. 

Expect a mix of embodied play, phenomenological inquiry, and practical theory you can take straight into your next breathwork experience—or your next Sunday nap.

YOUR FACILITATORS

Irene de Caso PhD is a neuroscientist with a deep curiosity for the mind, consciousness, and the transformative power of expanded states. She holds an MSc and PhD in cognitive neuroscience, with research on self-referential thinking, executive function, and brain connectivity. She trained in mindfulness for mental health at Nirakara Institute and is completing a Psychology degree. Irene is co-founder of the INAWE Foundation and author of Psychedelics and Mental Health: The Neuroscience Behind a New Psychotherapy. 

She has worked with the Beckley Foundation as a Scientific Officer alongside Amanda Fielding and now co-ordinates and is co-therapsit for Compass Pathways’ Phase III trial on psilocybin-assisted therapy at Zamora’s Provincial Hospital, also facilitating mindfulness for patients with severe BPD. Irene is co-organiser of La Seta Crítica, a psychedelic gathering in Spain. Passionate and grounded, she is devoted to the psyche, the mystery of life—and always up for a celebration.
 

Francesc Guinart is a facilitator of self-discovery, inner healing, and deep personal connection. Based in Spain, his journey began through yoga and breathwork, later deepened by training in Caycedian Sophrology, Holotropic Breathwork®, non-dual philosophy, and sacred plant therapies. Since 2008, he has supported therapeutic processes using both micro- and macrodoses of sacred plants, alongside the MindDetox Method to address deep-rooted stress and anxiety. 

Francesc organises and leads workshops and silent retreats, offering spaces for deep rest, healing, and reconnection with the authentic self. His work draws on integral attention to the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of being. Grounded in the power of silence and reflection, his retreats create a sacred pause—supporting participants to release what no longer serves and move toward greater wholeness.

Basia Zieniewicz, Co-founder of Yoga in The Stars, B.Ed., PGDip Integrative Art Therapy, PGCert Psychedelics, Altered States & Transpersonal Psychology, EMCC PGC Psychosynthesis Leadership Coaching Psychology, Reiki Master, IYN RYT, certified Grof® Psychedelic-Assisted Therapist, and in her final year of 4 as a trainee of Grof® Breathwork through the Grof Legacy Training®

Inspired by an interweaving of esoteric mysticism, sacred arts, and evidence-based modalities, Basia's special interest is in the liminal spaces, supporting individuals who seek inner and outer balance to resource their heart's desire. She offers constructive guidance in both the preparation and integration of NOSC, with tender care, helping clients navigate their experiences into lasting transformation.

MORE INFO ON SANISLAV GROF - HOLOTROPIC BREATHING

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