- lucasbfoley
the Wim Hof method
Updated: Feb 17

image: https://www.wimhofmethod.com/
Wim's website: https://www.wimhofmethod.com/
A recent study describing the benefits of Wim's methods: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12144-022-03739-y
I'm a huge fan of the Wim Hof method. The method is a 3-piece combo of a breathing technique, cold exposure, & physical exercises. I've dabbled in all 3. The breathing & cold exposure are the ones I routinely use. They consistently provide a refreshing reset to my nervous system. I'll be having a rough day - anxiety, racing thoughts, body pains, stress. If I do 3 solid rounds of Wim breathing, followed by (or sometimes during) a cold shower, I always feel so much better. More balanced, less stuck in my head, & my bodily pain feels less sharp & distracting. It's liberating & empowering in a way that feels healthy.
Wim is a fascinating & impressive dude. He holds several world records for feats of cold endurance, including:
- climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in shorts
- running a half marathon above the Arctic Circle barefoot
- standing in a container while covered with ice cubes for more than 112 minutes
On his website you can learn more about Wim, the method, science & testimonials, etc.
I find him inspiring. And I can personally attest that his method has done wonders for me. I used it today in fact, & that inspired me to post this message.
If you're feeling stuck, burnt out, spiralling, bleh - do the breath sessions (only takes 15 minutes or so), do the cold shower (even 1 minute makes a big difference), try some of his body posture techniques, & see how you feel. I'm willing to bet you'll feel a noticeable improvement, maybe even a remarkable one.
Medical disclaimer - use at your own risk, do your own research first, dabble lightly before diving in. I'm not an expert/professional; my recommendation is merely anecdotal. And definitely DON'T DO THE BREATHING WHILE DRIVING OR IN A BODY OF WATER. You can get lightheaded & fainting is possible. Do it in a safe space & respect the intensity of the process.
Also, I'll note that I'm not associated with Wim Hof in any way. This post is merely my personal testimonial. I hope to meet him one day so I can thank him in person for positively impacting my well-being.
Enjoy!