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Unlocking Vitality: Wim Hof Breathing and the Cold Plunge
In the pursuit of ultimate well-being, we often stumble upon powerful yet simple practices that can transform our lives. Wim Hof Breathing is one such technique, praised for its numerous benefits.
But what if you were told that its true magic is unveiled when combined with the power of the cold plunge? Here you will learn what Wim Hof Breathing is and how it serves as the key to unlocking the full spectrum of advantages a cold plunge has to offer, so you can elevate your physical and mental vitality in ways you never imagined.
Wim Hof Breathwork and Cold Exposure
When you expose your body to cold temperatures, the body releases adrenaline and noradrenaline (aka epinephrine and norepinephrine). These neurochemicals exist to make us alert of our surroundings and help us to sustain focus, even after cold exposure.
Saunas as An Ancient Health Tool
You’ve been living under a rock if you haven’t heard someone talk about how saunas, along with cold plunges, are all the rage in the health and wellness space. But let’s be honest… Do you actually know the benefits of sauna or just that it’s supposed to be good for you? Because to be honest… I couldn’t have told you the actual benefits of using the sauna until recently! I would have definitely just said, “Uhh it’s good because it makes you sweat and it’s a mental challenge to sit in a 170-degree box”.
Honoring the Cycle: Considerations for Hot and Cold Exposure in Women and the Benefits of Cold Plunge
All living creatures are heavily influenced by their environment. Although modern society brings artificial light and temperature control, our biology is always being affected by both natural and synthetic environmental stressors. Traditional cultures acknowledge the moon’s influence on the menstrual cycle, as they share a similar cycle: between 27 and 30 days. A long-term study published in Science Advances in January 2021 demonstrated that women younger than 35 more often sync their menses with the new or full moon more often than women over the age of 35. Research has also demonstrated the decreased tolerance of cold exposure on a women’s body during the different phases of the cycle, which aligns closely with how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has an emphasis on avoiding cold exposure including cold or raw foods and external cold exposure during menstruation.
An Introduction to Cold Therapy
In today’s world, cold therapy has gained increasing interest with athletes, doctors, health nuts, and general society due to its various benefits, and yes the science does live up to the hype! Not only does cold therapy support the basic foundational needs of the body, such as reducing inflammation, detoxing the body and flushing out cellular waste, but it also supports in reducing stress, improving mood and overall alertness.