Hi kids!
This weekend my friend Ashley introduced me to a breathing technique she’s been practicing and loving — the Wim Hof Breathing Technique. When she described the benefits to me and how helpful it can be for the nervous system, anxiety, stress and the immune system, I was already hooked before I even tried it. :)
As it turns out, Joel has the Wim Hof “The Way Of The Iceman” book (of course he would have it, since the other part of Wim Hof’s method includes bathing in lots of ice…and doing generally impossible things..) so I’ve been flipping through that too.
I decided to embark on a Wim Hof Breathing experiment immediately – today was my 2nd day. It doesn’t take long, and I felt super relaxed, energized and alive after trying it for the first time.
Watch this video to see Lewis Howes and Wim Hof demonstrating the technique.
My favorite part of this video BY FAR is when Lewis describes his experience — around 18:06
“I saw an image in my mind – it was originally a tree branch, like a tree spreading out, and then it turned into an eye. Almost like an eagle eye. And then it turned into a phoenix flying. It was unbelievable.”
YES LEWIS!!! Haha. How could I not try it after hearing that?!
So that’s the technique – and here’s the full interview with Wim Hof: Mastering Your Breath, Body and Mind on The School of Greatness Podcast:
Some benefits of Wim Hof Breathing Technique, according to Mr. Wim Hof:
- More oxygen stored in cells and tissues (floods the body with oxygen)
- Body chemistry becomes more alkaline
- Immune system, endocrine system, lymphatic systems — all strengthened and more efficient
- Helps alleviate depression, anxiety and stress
- Reduces inflammation in the body
- Enhances endurance and physical performance
- Improves energy levels
Wim Hof describing the benefits of his breathing technique on the Joe Rogan podcast:
This morning, I followed my Wim Hof breathing with Transcendental Meditation and I felt totally at ease, at peace, yet supercharged and clear. In fact, my meditation felt much deeper and easier after doing the breathing.
The breathwork only took about 10-15 mins. So paired with a 20 minute meditation, the whole routine that I did is roughly 30+ mins.
Ashley recommended I do it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. If you can do this breathwork outside in the fresh air, even better. Of course, I’ve been doing it on my back porch.
Experiments in mastering my physiology, one day at a time!
I’m gonna keep it up and see how it goes. I’m also going to see Wim Hof live in November at the Summit Series in LA and that makes me very excited.
Have you ever tried this breathing technique — or do you do any other form of breathwork? Has it made you feel different?
Leave a comment!