 Yes, I hate the cold and have struggled in the long Canadian winters for many years now. At one point I was even shivering on my bike in the summer heat due to an autoimmune/metabolic issue. I remembered as a child, my body would heat up after being outside in the snow, plus various cold therapies were used throughout Europe. Breathing can generate heat in the body. There are documented stories of monks in the Himalayas drying wet towels on their backs in the middle of winter. Hence, I decided to start with the “iceman”’s Breathing Method. I got his book called the Wim Hof Method and for days I listened to his interviews online to have a good sense of what and how to do it safely and successfully. On youtube, I came across his guided breath video which helped to learn the correct technique. I really enjoyed it. With the intermittent fasting, I was able to practice the breath several times a day. I loved it right away. You can’t really do the breathing exercises with a full stomach. I tried, it’s very unpleasant. Fasting and an empty stomach give you the space that you need. Women should be aware that too long intermittent fasting can be harmful and interfere with the hormonal system and the menstrual cycles -- 12-16 hrs of is optimal and beneficial. After a week, I started to do the cold showers as it felt good. I do only cold showers, which later on I enhanced with a small basket of ice to make it even colder. What a gift! As my body’s thermogenesis started to kick, I’ve noticed more and more benefits. Even after a few weeks of practicing, I become calmer and more joyful. I have more confidence and trust even under stressful situations. My health is better. My digestion and my immune system improved, which my practitioner colleagues noted as well. More importantly, I can take the cold better. My extremities warm again. For this, I have used the Feet and Hands in Ice water method. The change was fast even after 2-3 attempts. Naturally, yoga and exercise were already part of my daily routine which got better as well. The next big step was winter outdoor swimming and ice baths at home. It was surprisingly easy and came to me naturally. The best part of the winter! Wim Hof Method is my #1-morning routine. I start every day with the ice show or bath and the breath. I feel stronger and better than ever! Give it a try! Keep it simple, adapt it to your lifestyle! Do it daily!! Thank You, Wim! Back To Home |
