For all of my clients, fans or casual viewers of the website and my training program, I want to create a resource for fully understanding the Wim Hof Method breathing technique which is a fundamental underpinning to Ice Dragon Training. This was the first method I tried that really had a strong effect on my and allowed me to feel the superhuman capabilities of energy, body control and recovery that I have tried to cultivate with my training method.
Before I go on, YOU MUST NEVER DO THIS BREATHING TECHNIQUE NEAR WATER OR WHILE OPERATING A MOTOR VEHICLE. IT CAN CAUSE LIGHT HEADEDNESS AND LOSS OF CONTROL OVER YOUR BODY. ONLY DO THE TECHNIQUE WHILE YOU ARE SAFELY LYING DOWN OR SITTING A CONTROLLED SAFE ENVIRONMENT.
The Wim Hof technique is as follows.
4 rounds of Breathwork. Each round has 3 distinct parts.
The first part is Controlled Hyperventilation. For this you are stacking breath upon breathing 40-50 breaths in a row for beginners with deep inhales and gentle exhales. There should be about 2-3 seconds between each breath and you should be filling your lungs entirely with air. The exhales should be gentle so are not forcing the air out, but rather simply letting it go.
The second part of the technique is called Breath Retention. After you have breathed in and out deeply 40-50 times, on the last breath you let go of your air (remember not forcing the air out, but simply letting it go) and then hold your breath for as long as you can. After the exhalation. So the first part of the method works your breathing skills, diagrammatic muscles and hyper oxygenates your body. This second part of the method works a different set of skills.. the ability to be calm physically and mentally while your CO2 rises and oxygen drops. You are training this breath hold to last as long as possible. I’ve seen people do 5 minutes.
The third part of the technique is called Recovery Breath. After you do your breath retention and are not longer able to hold your breath anymore, you breath all the way in and hold your breath for 15 seconds after inhalation. While you hold you breath you gently squeeze your muscles in your body (particularly arms and chest). During this part of the technique you will likely feel a jolt of energy or emotion and this is where the high comes from. After 15 seconds are up you gently let go of your breath and then start over again for round 2, the controlled hyperventilation.
This breathing method is absolutely fundamental towards experiencing recovery from conditions and long lasting physical injuries. Think of it as a skill to practice that also has wonderful benefits such as making you feel high, emotionally connected, physically strong and mentally at peace.
You should aim practice this technique at least once a day for 4-5 rounds and be in a calm safe environment, so you can focus on your breath. Music is recommended as well.