Breathwork at Grand Rapids Psychedelic Society is going by a new name: Cerbero (pronounced sir-bay-dough). This is the Spanish variation on the word Cerberus, the 3 headed dog that guards the underworld and keeps the living and dead separate from Greek mythology. Our practice is there to get you past the cerberus that is the ego so that you may find your way to your land of the dead, the subconscious.
Please note: we are now including a suggested donation of $15 that shows up as an event fee. This can be paid over Venmo/Cashapp/PayPal ahead of the event (please message me for details), you can wait until the event to pay cash, or the fee can be waived on request.
What is breathwork?
This is best described as an active meditation process. You are able to reach a deep state through repetitive breathing.
What happens at the breathwork circle?
We will begin with introductions, discussing intentions, and doing some tarot readings. Then, we will do a few practices to prepare ourselves to relax into the active breathing, followed by 30 mins of active breathing laying on the floor, returning to normal breath, and a brief integration session where anyone can share about their experience. We will have fairly loud music on for an hour to help immerse us into the practice.
There are a few contraindications for this practice, they include: severe asthma, severe heart disease, mental illness, epilepsy/history of seizures, acute physical injuries, severe diabetes. Please reach out if you have any concerns or questions.
How to prepare
>It is recommended to avoid alcohol and mind altering substances for 24hrs before doing this practice. This is completely optional, but emphasizes the cleansing element of the practice, and it's a good mental health check in.
>have an empty stomach or eat lightly before the practice (food in your stomach can cause discomfort during the practice)
>wear loose fitting, comfortable clothes and undergarments (sweat pants, yoga pants)
What to bring
>blindfold / eye pillow (available for purchase $10)
>water bottle
>yoga mat
>a pillow, blanket if you have something in particular, other wise there are pillows, blankets, and bolsters available at the studio.
>any oils, crystals, items that speak to your spiritual path
Aftercare
After you complete your practice, it is recommended to follow some aftercare. Plan to take it easy for a while, resting for the evening if the practice happens at night. Eat some nutritious food to break your fast from before practice. This is a good time for things like epsom baths and being intimate with a partner.
The group will be limited to 8.