Over time, our relationship with the world we live in has changed. Our lifestyles have disconnected us from the natural environment. Because of this disconnection, our age-old survival mechanisms are no longer triggered and we’ve lost touch with our inner power. Through decades of self-exploration and groundbreaking scientific studies, Wim has created a simple, effective way to stimulate these deep physiological processes and realise our full potential. The first pillar of the Wim Hof Method® is breathing.
We’re always breathing, yet we’re mostly unaware of its tremendous potential. Heightened oxygen levels create an extensive range of benefits, and the breathing technique of the Wim Hof Method® unlocks them all: more energy, reduced stress levels, and an improved immune response that swiftly deals with pathogens.
The cold is your friend and is the second of the three pillars of the Wim Hof Method®. Healthy exposure to the cold starts a cascade of health benefits, including the buildup of brown adipose tissue, reduced inflammation that facilitates a stronger 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.
The third pillar of the Wim Hof Method® is the foundation of the other two: both cold exposure and conscious breathing require a dedicated mindset and discipline to commit to practice. Armed with focus and determination you are ready to explore and eventually master your own body and mind.
Wim Hof Method and Psychotherapy
Our whole mind body and spirit operates as one system. “Psycho” therapy means “Soul” healing. Our system brings itself into balance naturally using our breath but trauma we experience can disrupt our natural breathing pattern and we can need help to reset it. It is directly linked to our Fight/Flight/Freeze response and the Vagus nerve within our nervous system.
Breathing techniques come in various forms and some feel easier to practice than others.
The Wim Hof method is one I have practiced for a long time and I often recommend it during a psychotherapy journey. Cold exposure has a multitude of benefits also and this activates our inner healing system. Our bodies know exactly what to do to heal, including trauma, however our defense that our psyche creates can block the process for healing trauma held in the body.
Psychotherapy has many helpful ways of accessing trauma within the body to assist it to heal. Practicing breathwork techniques and cold exposure (such as a cold shower) can give a sense of control and empowerment of our body and healing processes.
Talk to Emer about including breathwork as part of your psychotherapy journey. https://www.wimhofmethod.com/benefits
