A Sacred Container for Deep Inner Work

Shuswap Holotropic Breathwork is grounded in the original Grof Transpersonal Training (GTT) developed by psychiatrist Stanislav Grof and later carried forward by the late Tav Sparks.

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Dr. Grof, the world’s foremost researcher of holotropic states of consciousness, spent more than sixty years exploring non-ordinary states and their profound healing potential. His work reshaped global understanding of personal and collective consciousness. Tav Sparks, who eventually led the training, infused the lineage with a deeply heart-centered, Buddhist presence—bringing humor, compassion, and unwavering integrity to the work.

Tami Denice began her training while both Stan and Tav were actively teaching and completed it shortly after Tav’s passing, under the continued guidance of senior trainers. The Grof Transpersonal Training remains widely regarded as the gold standard in holotropic and psychedelic state facilitation, requiring over 600 hours of foundational training plus ongoing educational commitment.

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Our Philosophy

At Shuswap Holotropic, we believe in the power of your inner healing wisdom — the innate intelligence within that knows exactly what you need in order to navigate your life. As facilitators, we are not directing your experience.
We are midwives to your process.

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People often arrive at Holotropic Breathwork during pivotal moments — after a wake-up call, loss, transition, or period of confusion. Yet many return again and again because the practice proves itself to be a uniquely powerful modality for navigating the inevitable ups and downs of human life.

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There is no better space for releasing the daily emotional and energetic residue we accumulate — what Andean traditions call hucha — and restoring clarity, vitality, and alignment.

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Every element of our events is curated to support deep inner work. The venue, music, food, altar, and support team are thoughtfully prepared to create a warm, inviting, and safe transformational container. Sessions can be robust and active, and you are supported at every turn by two highly trained facilitators and a dedicated team of apprentices.

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What to Expect

Preparation

Before attending, you will participate in a mandatory preparation talk (live or via recording).

In this session we:

• Walk you through the full process

• Explain safety considerations

• Clarify what to expect

• Answer all questions

 

The preparation talk is open to anyone at any time, and you are under no obligation to register after attending.

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The Session

You will be welcomed into a womb-like space designed to feel warm, cozy, and nurturing for your inner journey. Newcomers often arrive feeling nervous — this is completely normal. We take great care to ensure you feel supported and at ease. Nutritious snacks and tea are available upon arrival.

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We begin gathered in circle around a candlelit altar. The facilitators review important guidelines and orient you to the arc of the day. Each participant shares briefly, and then partners are chosen. You will alternate roles as breather and sitter, supporting one another across two sessions.

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The Music

Music is an essential component of the holotropic journey — often reported as equally or even more powerful than the breath itself.

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Facilitators complete a dedicated training module in constructing a precise and transformational music arc. The set:

• Lasts approximately three hours

• Is played at a strong volume

• Follows a carefully designed emotional and energetic arc

• Contains minimal or indistinguishable lyrics

 

The music supports descent, activation, release, and integration. Most participants emerge deeply moved — and often unexpectedly attached — to the journey it creates.

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The Breath

The breath is simple.

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Deeper. Faster.
Shorten the pause between.

That is the formula.

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Your own breath becomes the vehicle into the vast landscape of your personal and collective psyche. There is no “right” way beyond that invitation. You will naturally find your rhythm. The rest unfolds from within.

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Workshops are held in Calgary and the Shuswap area of British Columbia. Private sessions are available. Email tami.denice@proton.me if you are interested in an upcoming workshop or private session. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to breathe the entire three hours?

No. You may take breaks at any time. We encourage you to breathe until something surprises you — and then allow that experience to unfold. If you notice yourself thinking about the experience, gently return to the breath. The invitation is to stay in the felt, embodied process rather than analysis. Toward the end of the session, the music softens and many participants choose to rest in a peaceful, integrative state.

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Will I do something stupid or crazy?

Nothing that happens in the room is considered stupid or crazy. Stored emotion, trauma, and energy can express in many ways — movement, sound, tears, anger, laughter. You remain aware and in control of your faculties throughout. We encourage you to allow what arises (within clear safety guidelines), and we are there to support you. You may also slow down or stop at any time.

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What if nothing happens? What if everything happens?

We prepare you for both.

Occasionally someone reports that “nothing happened.” Sometimes this reflects a deeper life pattern — perhaps a belief that meaningful experiences are for others but not for you. Even when the session feels quiet, participants often report clarity, insight, or life shifts emerging in the days that follow.

And if everything happens — we prepare you for that too.

We trust the inner healer. Always.

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An Invitation

Holotropic Breathwork is not simply an event. It is a practice of remembering who you are. If you feel called to explore the depths of your psyche in a safe, supported, lineage-based container, we invite you to join us.

Your inner wisdom already knows the way.

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Important: Health & Safety Guidelines

While Holotropic Breathwork is profoundly healing for many, it is not suitable for everyone. Due to the intensity of the experience, there are important medical and psychological contraindications. Please read the full list before participating and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.​ Click the Contraindications button for a list to review. ​​