The 365 Commitment

Day 349 – Wim Hof

So one of the 365 Members, Ben, referred me to this crazy guy named Wim Hof. He is the world record holder for the longest sustained timed being immersed completely in ice (1 hour and 52 minutes and 42 seconds). Yes, humans are capable of some crazy things. He has also done some weird things like run an entire marathon in the desert without water, ran the artic circle in -4 F degree temperatures, finishing in 5 hours. He also tried to reach the peak of Everest wearing nothing but shorts, but but he came up short because he hurt his foot.

So what is this guy’s secret? How can I he bear this kind of misery for so long. He claims it is because of his breathing method. He swears by a breathing method in which you basically do a controlled hyperventilation for 30 breaths, holding your breath for a while and repeating two more times. This he claims will cause you to be stronger, defeat disease, and treat all sorts of other maladies.

A few scientists have challenged his claims, one in particular, investigated him and discovered something shocking – Wim Hof was right! He was actually controlling his hormone levels with his breathing technique, the oxygen infusion was having a tremendous effect on heart rate, adrenaline, blood chemistry. There is a book out on this by Scott Carney.

So, me being me, I tried it this morning and….wow. First of all, the process really does improve your strength and resolve. That I can say was an immediate effect. It also caused a interesting sensation as my oxygen levels increase with the breathing technique. I did NOT have a sudden urge to jump into an ice bath, but I could see that I was able to withstand discomfort. Between breathing sessions, I did push-ups and I was able to do much more in a row then normal.

Not sure if I will adopt this or not, but I can tell you that it is interesting that I have come by some similar concepts in my journey. The importance of breathing, meditations, embracing the suck or the cold. So look it up and try some Wim Huf. Just be careful, make sure you lay down and do not go crazy with it.

Guy Reams (349)
365 Member

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