According to Grof, the third perinatal Matrix is associated with the “struggle before death and the subsequent rebirth.” In a previous article, I have already introduced the birth matrices of Stanislav Grof, and now I want to present in detail how the third phase of birth trauma can present itself in a regression. In addition, my series of articles outlines the entire spectrum around the therapeutic processing of trauma through techniques such as CranioSacral Therapy and Holotropic Breathwork.
Such techniques can be used to initiate expanded states of consciousness that allow us to act on the subconscious levels of the mind. We recognize repressed and hidden traumas that lead to lasting imprints and their psychosomatic effects in this process. In holistic or holotropic therapy, these transpersonal dimensions are the mental level where the causes of blockages and psychopathological patterns are found. Therefore, it is helpful to know the perinatal matrices in detail to identify and work on hidden traumas in therapy specifically.
The Third Birth Matrix
The Struggle Before Death and Rebirth
The third perinatal Matrix, according to Stanislav Grof, is related to the second clinical stage of childbirth.
In the third Matrix, uterine contractions continue, the cervix dilates, and the arduous process of propelling through the birth canal begins. This means a tremendous struggle for survival, massive mechanical pressure, and oxygen deprivation, i.e., imminent suffocation. It is associated with an extreme increase in fear, pain, and pressure, and there can be a kind of sexual energy generated by suffocation. There may be other sexual images and perceptions associated with it.
Phenomena of the Third Matrix
The phenomena of the third Matrix usually begin with intensifying suffering into cosmic dimensions, with a possible simultaneous sensation of pleasure and pain. Bright colors, explosions, and fireworks can manifest visually before the inner eye. Visions of wild adventures and exploration of dangerous terrains, death, and rebirth experiences may appear.
Physically, intense reactions may occur, such as pressure pains, impending suffocation, and muscle tension, that are discharged tremor- and twitch-like. Nausea and vomiting are possible in the 3rd Matrix, with violent sensations of heat and cold, sweating, and heart trouble being other indicators.
Third Matrix Example
A Case Study from CranioSacral Therapy
In CranioSacral Therapy, we know the importance of treating the large transverse structures, the diaphragms. Even though a fetus is supplied with oxygen through the umbilical cord, it can be compressed during this phase. Thus, the very common sensations of suffocation can occur in the fetus.
In CranioSacral Therapy (CST), treating the lower diaphragms first and only then the thoracic inlet is always essential. Effective thorax treatment is only possible if we first treat the umbilical region between the two lower diaphragms. Relaxation is usually only possible in this order. This was also the case with our colleague Ronda (name changed) during a CST multi-hand treatment.
Ronda’s Energy Cyst
We knew her EC (energy cyst) was in the neck and navel area. The treatment has developed slowly; she does not know where she is. Basically, she does not seem to understand much cognitively, but the physical experience is powerful. She makes several violent head movements, then strong body movements.
She wants to free herself somehow but seems stuck, and in the process, she can’t get any air. I’m the leading therapist, held down at her neck (where I was at the EC from the beginning) by Ronda herself. After a while, her right arm starts to move slowly, and she is encouraged by her colleagues to continue this movement. This arm (right one) then tries to push me away, but her other arm (left one) holds me at the neck area.
Reenactment of the Trauma
I apparently played the role of the umbilical cord, which is stuck so that Ronda can’t breathe. An assistant treats the second EC in the umbilical region. In between, Ronda also experiences feelings of nausea. This situation lasts for most of the treatment. It is like a struggle or wrestling.
Finally, Ronda frees herself from the umbilical cord, and the process continues with intense full-body movements: curling up, then sitting up and turning back and forth on the couch. Again and again, she also tries to stretch, accompanied by several therapists, until finally, there is full-body relaxation.
Continuation of the Matrices
Summary of the Third Matrix
As described by Stanislav Grof, the third Matrix of holistic therapy can be seen in Holotropic Breathwork. It can also be experienced in regressions in the context of CranioSacral Therapy. The birth process is a phase that resembles a struggle for survival and can leave deep psychological impressions, mostly shifted into the subconscious. These hidden traumas can lead to lasting imprints that bind people’s potential and block individualization.
In holistic therapy, we enter expanded states of consciousness to uncover these traumas and scan these transpersonal dimensions for blockages and imprints. For more on this, see my series of articles.
Overview of the Perinatal Matrices
- Basics of Perinatal Matrices
- 1st Matrix, “The Amniotic Universe”
- 2nd Matrix, “Cosmic devouring and Hopelessness”
- 3rd Matrix, “Struggle before Death and Rebirth”
- 4th Matrix, “Death and Rebirth”
Questions concerning the Topic
- What are expanded states of consciousness?
- Where can I find advice on holistic techniques?
- What is CranioSacral Therapy?
- Where can I get homeopathic treatment?
- Can I get holistic treatment for birth trauma?
- What is Holotropic Breathwork?
- What did Stanislav Grof realize about consciousness?
- Who wrote this article?
Continue to 4th Matrix >
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