Wim hoff breathing
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Wim Hof's breathing technique, often referred to as Wim Hof Method Breathwork, involves cyclic hyperventilation followed by breath retention. describes this method as taking big inhales and exhales, repeating the pattern in cycles. During this process, a significant amount of adrenaline is released from the brain and body, which can induce a state resembling meditation and allow one to manage and maneuver through stressful challenges. This method has also been known to increase body temperature and alter the state of the brain and body due to the release of adrenaline 1.
The result of cyclic hyperventilation is a lowering of the impulse to breathe by getting rid of a lot of carbon dioxide. During the breath hold phase after hyperventilation, the feeling of anxiety and the impulse to breathe come much later than normal, which can be a form of self-induced stress inoculation, teaching one how to control the release of adrenaline and epinephrine in response to stressors. This kind of deliberate breathing can also have effects on immune system function, affecting inflammation and the ability to combat infections 2.
Additionally, there is scientific evidence supporting the effects of such breathing techniques on immune response. A study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences presented evidence that participants who performed Wim Hof style breathing experienced fewer symptoms of sickness after being injected with E. coli, compared to those who did not use the breathing technique. It is proposed that by engaging the sympathetic nervous system through this breathwork, the normal pathways by which the immune system function is enhanced are activated 3.
It's important, however, to exercise caution with these techniques, as doing them in water or if you're prone to anxiety or panic attacks can be dangerous. also warns against practicing Wim Hof breathing near water because of the risk of drowning due to the altered Carbon dioxide and Oxygen balance which suppresses the breathing reflex 4.
Before trying any breathwork techniques, including the Wim Hof Method, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals and to consider personal health conditions.
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