Hey guys!
It’s time for a new week challenge, and this week we are going to work on our Mind-Body connection! Mind-body connection, what does that really mean? Well, it means that our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and attitudes can affect how we function biologically. In other words, your mind has a saying in your bodies health status and physiological responses in different situation! So this translates to a very practical and straight forward challenge; we’re going to try out Wim Hof’s aka The iceman’s daily 4-minute breathing exercises and also do his cold shower challenge! So if you’re up for this, make sure to watch this whole video!
Information from Wim Hof’s homepage:
COLD THERAPY
“The cold is your warm friend. Exposing your body to it in the right way starts a cascade of health benefits, including the buildup of brown adipose tissue and subsequent fat loss, reduced inflammation to facilitate a fortified immune system, balanced hormone levels, improved sleep quality, and the production of endorphins— the feel-good chemicals in the brain that naturally elevate your mood.”
BREATHING
“We’re always breathing, yet we’re mostly unaware of its tremendous potential. Heightened oxygen levels hold a treasure trove of benefits, and the specialized breathing technique of the Wim Hof Method unearths them all: more energy, reduced stress levels, and an augmented immune response to swiftly deal with pathogens.”
COMMITMENT
“The third pillar is the foundation of the other two: both cold exposure and conscious breathing require patience and dedication in order to be fully mastered. Armed with focus and determination you are ready to explore and eventually master your own body and mind.”
The Objectives:
So the objectives of this challenge is to embrace Wim Hof’s breathing practices and do at least one cold shower every day. Just watch the video instructions for how to do this.
The following information is sourced from: wimhofmethod.com
✔ Warning: The breathing exercise has a profound effect and should be practiced in the way it is explained. Always do the breathing exercise in a safe environment (e.g. sitting on a couch/floor) and unforced. Never practice the exercises before or during diving, driving, swimming, taking a bath or in any other environment/place where, should you pass out, a serious injury could occur. Wim Hof breathing may cause tingling sensations and/or lightheadedness. If you’ve fainted, it means that you went to far. Take a step back next time.The cold is a powerful force. We strongly advise to gradually build up exposing yourself to the cold. Always train without force and listen to your body carefully. If it is not practiced responsible, there is a risk of hypothermia. Do not practice the method during pregnancy or when having epilepsy. Persons with cardiovascular health issues, or any other (serious) health conditions, should always consult a medical doctor before starting with the Wim Hof Method.
THE THREE VIDEOS:
Video #1: Wim Hof teaches you how to do more push-ups with his breathing technique. The scientific breathing techniques will significantly improve your energy levels, detox the body and release toxins, relieve stress and tension, and strengthen your immune system.
Video #2: Wim teaches you how a simple cold shower can help you to burn fat, boost your immune system and increase the “feel good” chemicals in the brain called endorphins (natures own mood boosters). You can download your Free 20 day cold shower sheet here: http://explore.wimhofmethod.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/coldshower-exercise-wimhofmethod.pdf
Video #3: This video is all about commitment. Why you should take action today
You could also just sign up to his homepage and you’ll get all the information there
https://www.wimhofmethod.com/elearning/free-3-part-video-miniclass
For me the structure of this challenge will look like this:
– Breathing exercise every morning prior to my morning workout
– Cold shower each morning after my morning workout
Now besides this, I’ll also try and see if I’ll be able to hold my breath for over 2 minutes! Now previously I’ve only been able to do this for just over one minute, so we’ll see.
So I wish you the best of luck guys, and make sure to stop by during the week to see some nice vlogging about this challenge.
/Alexander 🙂
