I tried the Wim Hof Method...

For those of you who have been following my blog for a while, you may remember an article I wrote about the Iceman, Wim Hof, and his unique health and wellness practices.

Today, I’m coming full circle to detail my experience after several months of consistent practice of his methods.

If you’re on Instagram, you’ve probably seen more people jumping on the cold water swimming bandwagon and might be wondering what the fuss is about. Combine this with guided breathwork and you’ve got the Wim Hof Method — a simple yet powerful practice involving three pillars:

• Breathwork

• Cold Therapy

• Commitment

  
  

Coined by Dutch athlete Wim Hof, known as “The Iceman.”

Wim Hof’s Story

After tragically losing his wife at a young age, Wim spiraled into depression and was left a single father to four young children.

To cope with his grief, he turned to the cold. By enduring extreme temperatures and undergoing extensive breathing control training, Wim regained his energy — and much more.

Years later, as an extreme athlete, yogi, and adventurer, Wim now holds 21 Guinness World Records. These include:

• Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in just a pair of shorts

• Running a half marathon above the Arctic Circle barefoot

  
  

He is living proof of what the human body is capable of.

Wim shares his knowledge through the Wim Hof Method, scientifically proving that we can:

• Train the body to better cope with stress

• Strengthen cardiovascular health

• Gain control over the immune system

  
  

Celebrities such as Russell Brand, Jim Carrey, and The Body Coach have learned from him.

Proven benefits include:

• Reduced stress

• Increased energy

• Strengthened willpower

• Enhanced creativity

• Improved sleep

• Heightened focus

Wim Hof Breathing Explained

Breathing — we all do it, and it’s fundamental to life. But what if we could breathe in a way that changes our body’s chemistry?

The Wim Hof Method breathing exercises act as a short stress response. This “controlled hyperventilation” leads to greater resilience and control in everyday life.

The method involves:

• Deep, rhythmic inhales and exhales

• A retention time (holding the breath for minutes at a time)

  
  

(Check it out on YouTube if you want to try.)

Having explored breathwork since discovering The Breath Guy a few years ago, I was already familiar with its power. I like to think of breathwork as energy therapy — it releases happy hormones and can help let go of suppressed emotions.

On more than one occasion, I’ve felt stress physically leave my body during a session. It’s normal to feel lightheaded or tingly — even like you’re floating on a cloud.

For peace of mind: People have been breathing for centuries before you. These sensations are working in your favor.

Cold Therapy: Building Immunity

According to Wim, our bodies are naturally capable of withstanding extreme temperatures. However, modern life keeps us “comfortable” with artificially controlled surroundings.

Cold therapy challenges the cardiovascular system and blood vessels, helping to:

• Balance hormones

• Build mental resilience

  
  

How to start:

1. Begin with cold showers.

2. Ease your body into the water — hands, feet, shoulders, then the rest.

3. Avoid forcing it — let your body adapt gradually.

4. 
   

By combining cold exposure with breathing techniques, your mind is trained to cope — so your body doesn’t have to work as hard.

When I started, I could only last 15 seconds in cold water. Now, I can manage well over a minute with ease. I also take ocean dips when possible, finding the exhilaration and accomplishment unmatched.

To push my limits, I practiced yoga outside in 5°C weather, wearing just shorts and a sports bra. I held poses for up to 20 minutes. It was uncomfortable — but surprisingly enjoyable.

Reminding myself of Wim’s 112-minute ice tank record kept me going. Afterwards, I felt ultra-energized, exhilarated, and at peace.

Commitment: Mental Endurance

Dedication is the most important pillar. A goal is just a goal unless it becomes a habit.

Going deep into your own physiology requires:

• Patience

• Willpower

• Focus

  
  

It starts with setting an intention and recognizing the power of your thoughts to direct your body’s stress responses.

So, What’s the Verdict?

Everyone’s Wim Hof Method journey is different — and it takes:

• Self-control

• Accountability

• Mental resilience

  
  

The work is worth it.

Breathwork has integrated into my daily life. Whether exercising, feeling overwhelmed, or depleted, conscious breathing resets my mind and body. Cold showers leave me feeling energized for the day ahead.

This method is freeing. I’m calmer, more present, and more patient. My body feels more energized than ever.

With this method, you can go anywhere you want, too.

Call to Action:Want support with cold therapy and breathwork? Contact us at Beyond Fitness and start your own Wim Hof journey.

Want support with this? Contact us at Beyond Fitness and let us help you build your system.