Wim Hof Breathing Method

How we breathe has a powerful effect on our physiology. We can alter our breathing technique to significantly improve energy levels, detox the body, relieve stress and tension, and strengthen the immune system. Alternatively, many people suffer daily from shallow, anxious breathing that creates a toxic and acidic body chemistry. With a small amount of guidance and practice, you will quickly understand how easy it is to manipulate your body chemistry on the spot with your breathing. Below is a 10 minute introduction video from Wim Hof himself. Then under that is another video that will guide you through the breathing technique. And below that is a third video of Dr. B practicing one round of breathwork.

The official Wim Hof website warns not to practice this method if you are dealing with epilepsy, uncontrolled high blood pressure, pregnancy, a history of heart disease or stroke. First consult a healthcare professional if you have questions about a serious medical condition.

You can expect instant benefits as quick as your first session. These benefits can also become more pronounced with practice and commitment. Some of these may include:

• Stress reduction
• Faster recovery from physical exertion
• Better sleep
• Improved sports performance
• Enhanced creativity
• More focus and mental clarity

BE WARNED! If you are following along correctly, this will make you feel uncomfortable at first. As he recommends, only practice in a safe and stable environment. (not in a pool or a vehicle) It definitely feels much more comfortable on an empty stomach.

Video in summary:

• Lay on your back comfortably and breathe 30 inhalations
• Pull the air deep. First fill the lower abdomen, then chest, then pull air into your head
• Do not force the exhale and do not exhale completely, simply allow the breathe to leave the lungs naturally
• After these 30 deep breaths, exhale the last breathe and then do not inhale again for as long as you comfortably can. This length of time will vary for everyone, and will also get longer with practice.
• As soon as you feel the urge to inhale, go ahead and pull a long, full breath in and then hold it at the peak of full inhale for around 15 seconds. Bear down and increase your abdominal and chest pressure to force the blood into your head.
• Repeat 1 to 5 times