Spiritus8® Salon
Divine Madness and the Opening of the Soul
July 17–19, 2026
In Plato’s Phaedrus, certain forms of madness are not illness but inspiration — moments when the soul opens to truths beyond the limits of ordinary reason. This salon explores the idea of “divine madness” and its relationship to creativity, transformation, and expanded states of awareness.
Reading
Plato, Phaedrus
Recommended edition: Penguin Classics
Kindle edition: Penguin Classics Kindle edition
Excerpt: The section describing divine madness, where Socrates explains four forms of inspired madness — prophetic, ritual, poetic, and erotic.
Plato reframes madness as a sacred rupture — a departure from ordinary consciousness through which insight, beauty, and creative power emerge.
Field Notes: Philosophy and Expanded States →
Schedule
Friday
6 PM – 10 PM
Arrival and welcome
Opening philosophical conversation and shared reflection on the selected text
Orientation: types of experiences, breather/sitter roles, how to breathe, partner selection
Dessert, coffee, and curated mocktails
Saturday
9 AM – 7:30 PM
Arrival and preparation
Full-day Holotropic Breathwork® immersion
Light lunch and evening supper provided
Snacks available throughout the day
Sunday
10 AM – 1 PM
Integration practices
Reflection on the philosophical themes explored on Friday
Continental breakfast and coffee
Program concludes at 1:30 PM.
Participation
$2,800 per person
Due upon acceptance
Limited to eight participants to preserve the depth, discretion, and integrity of the container.
Included
• Expert facilitation
• Meals and refreshments, prepared with mindfully sourced organic ingredients and designed to support grounding and integration throughout the weekend
• Pre-Salon preparation materials, including an introduction to the history and lineage of expanded states of consciousness and Holotropic Breathwork®
• One individual preparation Zoom (60 minutes) prior to the Salon to review medical history, discuss intentions, and receive guidance on preparation
• One group integration Zoom (60 minutes) approximately one week after the Salon
Accommodations
Participants are strongly encouraged to stay in Wimberley for the duration of the Salon. Because the work engages expanded states of consciousness, driving far after the program is not advised. Remaining nearby allows the weekend to unfold without interruption and supports the integration process.
There are many wonderful places to stay in Wimberley. A few options include:
Onera Wimberley
(512) 866-4358
The Bygone
(512) 647-4777
Creekhaven Inn & Spa
(512) 847-9344
Cypress Creek Cottages
(512) 847-5950
Location
The Salon takes place at the Spiritus8® Retreat House in Wimberley, Texas.
The full address and arrival details will be provided after registration is complete and payment has been received.
Apply Now
Participation is limited and attendance is by application.
Applicants will be asked to complete registration and medical forms prior to confirmation.
Cancellation Policy
Because participation is limited to eight participants and preparation begins well in advance of the Salon, the following policy applies:
• Cancellations more than 30 days before the Salon receive a full refund minus a $250 administrative fee.
• Cancellations within 30 days of the Salon are non-refundable.
• If your space can be filled from the waitlist, your payment may be applied toward a future Spiritus8® Salon.
If exceptional circumstances arise, participation may be applied toward a future Spiritus8® Salon at the discretion of the organizer.