Wim hoff breathing

Wim Hof breathing is a cyclic breathing practice: repeated deep breaths followed by breath holds. It can trigger a strong adrenaline response and physiological changes that may influence stress and immune responses. 1

• 1. Carbon dioxide and breath holds: Deep, repeated breathing blows off carbon dioxide. Since rising carbon dioxide normally helps trigger the urge to breathe, lowering it can delay that urge during the following hold. 2
• 2. Adrenaline and stress response: The breathing can release adrenaline and make you feel heated or activated. Deliberately entering that state may also serve as a form of stress practice, where you notice the body's activation while maintaining mental clarity. 3 4
• 3. E. coli study: In a PNAS study, participants who used a similar breathing protocol after E. coli endotoxin exposure had lower flu-like symptoms than controls who meditated; the breathing group also showed changes in inflammatory signaling. 5
• 4. Safety: Do not practice near or in water, or while driving; passing out could be dangerous. Don’t force a breath hold—breathe when the urge arises. The discussion also cautions that the practice may not be suitable for everyone, including people prone to anxiety or panic, and recommends medical clearance. 6 7