Wim Hof, known as "The Iceman," holds records for extreme cold exposure and created the Wim Hof Method for body and mind optimization. In a fascinating conversation, he discusses the healing power of breath and how mindset influences our autonomic nervous system. Hof shares insights on using deliberate stress to prevent disease and the transformative journey of self-discovery through cold water immersion. He emphasizes that by mastering our minds, we can enhance our well-being and unlock a fulfilling, purposeful life.
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insights INSIGHT
Stress and the Brain
Stress can be controlled through conscious will, impacting the brainstem's survival mechanisms.
Modern lifestyles limit our engagement with our deeper brain functions, making us vulnerable to stress.
question_answer ANECDOTE
The Iceman's Feat
Wim Hof maintained his core body temperature in ice water for an extended time, exceeding medical expectations.
He achieved this mental feat on Regis and Kelly's show, even while distracted.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Overcoming Stress
To overcome stress, start by relaxing and focusing on increasing energy levels.
Deep breathing restores biochemistry, improves blood flow, and lowers heart rate, reducing stress.
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RELAX.
How often do you say, “I’m just going to get through the day.” You’re running on adrenaline. But it’s not sustainable. If you’re not relaxed, you’re not breathing. If you’re not breathing, you’re not getting oxygen. It’s a loop. You’re going to be exhausted all the time.
On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about the power of breathing to heal our mind and body with a man known as “The Iceman:” Wim Hof. Wim Hof got his nickname “The Iceman” by breaking a number of records related to cold exposure. His feats include climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in shorts, running a half marathon above the Arctic Circle on his bare feet, and standing in a container while covered with ice cubes for more than 112 minutes. He developed the Wim Hof Method: a natural path to an optimal state of body and mind. He says that our brains have the power to guarantee us happiness, strength, and health. We can actually regulate our mind and the autonomous nervous system by breathing and being present. Shut Up. Go in. Feel. Be. Connect.
So get ready to learn how to harness the power of the mind on Episode 799.
Some Questions I Ask:
How does creating stress on the body prevent disease? (4:00)
What do you think about right before you get in the cold water? (8:30)
Why did you get into the ice and breathing business? (16:30)
Where do you feel the most loved in your life? (29:00)
Who was more influential? Your mom or your dad? (38:00)
In This Episode You Will Learn:
How control of the autonomic nervous system in the brain can help depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders (10:00)
How cold helps you still the emotion on your mind (25:00)
About your sixth, seventh, and eighth senses (32:00)
About the science behind the benefit of putting stress on your body (3:00)
Follow me on:
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Twitter @LewisHowes
Facebook @LewisHowes
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