Throughout the years, Wim Hof has developed special breathing exertions that keep his body in optimal condition and in complete control in the most extreme conditions. Practising these specific breathing exercises of the Wim Hof breathing exercise will release your inner fire. The exercises are focused on deep and rhythmic inhalations and exhalations, described by Wim as ‘controlled hyperventilation or power breathing’ and are followed by a retention time, where you hold your breath for an x amount of time. By practising the breathing exercises, you are releasing more energy, influencing your nervous system and changing various physiological responses. You are inducing a short stress response which will lead to more resilience towards everyday stress, mentally and physiology and feeling more in control.
These breathing exercises are only one of three pillars that form the Wim Hof Method. The other two pillars are cold therapy and training your mindset. When combined, the three pillars will help you to become stronger and gain better health. Known benefits of the Wim Hof Method include:
- Stress reduction
- Faster recovery from physical exertion
- Better sleep
- Improved sports performance
- Enhanced creativity
- More focus and mental clarity
The Wim Hof Method is also linked to reducing symptoms of diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, asthma, sarcoidosis, vasculitis, and several autoimmune diseases.
Try the Wim Hof Breathing Exercise Out!
Wim Hof Method breathing is simple and easy — everyone can do it! Just follow the steps below. It’s recommended to practise right after waking, or before a meal when your stomach is still empty. Note that WHM breathing can affect motor control and, in rare cases, lead to loss of consciousness. Always sit or lie down before practising the techniques. Never practise while piloting a vehicle, or in or near bodies of water.
The Method
Step 1: Get Comfortable
Assume a meditation posture: sitting, or lying down — whichever is most comfortable for you. Make sure you can expand your lungs freely without feeling any constriction.
Step 2: 30-40 Deep Breaths
Close your eyes and try to clear your mind. Be conscious of your breath and try to fully connect with it. Inhale deeply through the nose or mouth and exhale unforced through the mouth. Fully inhale through the belly, then the chest and then let go unforced. Repeat these 30 to 40 times in short, powerful bursts. You may experience light-headedness, and tingling sensations in your fingers and feet. These side effects are completely harmless.
Step 3: The Hold
After the last exhalation, inhale one final time, as deeply as you can. Then let the air out and stop breathing. Hold until you feel the urge to breathe again.
Step 4: Recovery Breath
When you feel the urge to breathe again, draw one big breath to fill your lungs. Feel your belly and chest expanding. When you are at full capacity, hold your breath for around 15 seconds, then let go. That completes round number one. This cycle can be repeated 3-4 times without an interval. After having completed the breathing exercise, take your time to bask in the bliss. This calm state is highly conducive to meditation — do not hesitate to combine the two.
More information can be found on https://www.wimhofmethod.com/breathing-exercises
