How to Do the Wim Hof Breathing Method & Keep Cool

Psychologists have found that practicing breathwork reduces anxiety, depression, stress, and even blood pressure.

Have you ever wondered how to do the Wim Hof Breathing method yourself?

It is a revolutionary technology that will help you tap into your body’s natural ability to heal itself. 

In just 10 minutes, through simple breath work and exercises, you can increase focus and relaxation, reduce stress, boost energy levels, and so much more! 

With the Wim Hof method, you’ll gain control of your autonomous nervous system enabling improved mental clarity & emotional resilience. 

Don’t worry about needing specialized equipment – all that’s needed for this transformative practice is yourself! 

To silence your busy mind by strengthening physical health as well as mental well-being with this tailored breathing technique, keep reading!  

What Is the Wim Hof Breathing Method?

The Wim Hof breathing method, named after the man who developed it, is a technique that involves controlled hyperventilation followed by breath retention. 

It is thought to increase the amount of oxygen in the body, boosts energy levels, and reduce stress and inflammation. 

The Wim Hof breathing exercises are done in cycles, with deep inhales and exhales followed by holding the breath for several seconds. 

This method of breathing sort of hijacks and puts parts of the autonomic nervous system into a manual override, in regards to the breathing which it normally controls. 

*While the Wim Hof breathing method has gained popularity in recent years, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new techniques or practices.

When to Use the Wim Hof Breathing Method

If you’re unsure of when to practice the Wim Hof method breathing, it’s recommended to do it right after waking up or before a meal when your stomach is still empty. 

This way, you can fully focus on your breath without any distractions, allowing you to reap the maximum benefits from the exercise. 

However, it’s important to note that everyone’s body is different, and you may find that practicing at a different time of day works better for you. 

Experiment with different times and see how your body responds to find the best routine for your unique needs.

Step-By-Step Instructions to Use the Wim Hof Breathing Method

At its core, this method involves a combination of breathing exercises and mental focus. 

The breathwork component of the technique involves 3 steps.

It may sound bizarre but by properly practicing this technique, individuals can train their bodies to better handle stress and improve their overall well-being. 

If you’re curious about trying it out for yourself, here’s a full tutorial on how to get started.

Step 1

30 Breathes

Breathe deeply through your nose, then exhale slowly through your mouth. Do this for 30 breaths to prime your breathing, and prepare your body.

Step 2

Partial Exhale

Take a deep breath and exhale slowly until you reach 90 percent capacity. Hold your breath for as long as possible, aiming for your personal best.

Step 3

Inhale and Hold

Take a deep breath, hold it for 15 seconds, and exhale. This resets the cycle. Depending on your need, repeat steps 1-3 or finish up with this final step. The typical run-through is 3 rounds of these three steps.

What to Know to Successfully Use the Wim Hof Breathing Method

Before diving into the Wim Hof breathing method, it is important to note, although incredibly uncommon, there can be some risks involved. 

In rare cases, the Wim Hof breathing technique can lead to loss of consciousness and affect motor control. 

It’s also not a good idea to use this intense breathwork technique if you have certain health issues, and you should talk to your doctor about it before trying. 

Therefore, it is crucial to always sit or lie down before practicing the techniques, to ensure your safety. 

Once you are in a comfortable position, you can start exploring the benefits of this powerful breathing technique. 

Use the breath retention phase to witness your own thoughts and your body’s response. 

There are instructors available as well, and you can become certified in a 3 part course.

The first two parts are online, and the third requires some travel and is a much larger commitment.

Theres an app that can really help you through instructional videos.

With practice, you can learn to tap into the power of your breath to increase your energy, reduce stress, and transform your overall well-being.

Next Level: Using the Wim Hof Method to Power Through a Cold Plunge

The Wim Hof Method, a combination of breathing techniques and cold exposure, has gained popularity as a means of improving overall health and well-being. 

Beyond just the mental fortitude required to take on a cold plunge, the method has been shown through scientific research to have physiological effects as well. 

While cold therapy alone is incredibly effective, using the whim hof method takes it up a notch by improving the parts of cold therapy that are less desirable without taking away any of the benefits. 

The Wim Hof Breathing Method is scientifically proven to make the blood more alkaline, the body can function more optimally, and the hypoxia-induced by the breathing exercises creates stress on a cellular level that can lead to increased resilience and adaptation. 

Using the Wim Hof Method to power through a cold plunge may seem daunting, but it can provide both physical and mental benefits that extend far beyond the immediate experience.

Alternatives Breathing Techniques

There are a variety of alternative breathing techniques available, each with its unique benefits. 

Four of the most common pranayama styles include Nadhi Sodhana, Kapalabhati Pranayama, Ujjayi Pranayama, and Sitali Pranayama. 

Nadhi Sodhana, also known as alternate nostril breathing, can help calm the mind and reduce stress. 

Kapalabhati Pranayama, or skull-shining breath, involves forceful exhalations and can help purify the respiratory system. 

Ujjayi Pranayama, or victorious breath, is characterized by deep inhales and exhales and can improve concentration and focus. 

Finally, Sitali Pranayama, or cooling breath, involves inhaling through the mouth and can be useful for reducing body heat and promoting relaxation. 

Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, purify your respiratory system, or improve focus and concentration, there’s a pranayama breathing style that can help you achieve your goals.

Final Thoughts on the Wim Hof Breathing Method

The Wim Hof breathing method has gained attention in recent years, with some people swearing for its benefits for physical and mental well-being. 

While there is limited scientific research on the method, the three physician-scientists who received the Nobel Prize in physiology and medicine for their discoveries on oxygen availability provide some evidence for the importance of controlled breathing. 

Whether or not the Wim Hof method is an effective technique, (we’re pretty sure it is thanks to science) it can serve as a helpful distraction during challenging activities like ice baths. 

At the very least, it gives people something else to focus on, which can be beneficial for those seeking to improve their mental and physical resilience.