Getting Better Sleep Using The Wim Hoff Breathing Method
/In my last post I gave you six tips for getting better sleep. Since then I started using the Wim Hoff breathing method just before going to sleep and I am getting fantastic results! It almost always took me more than twenty minutes to fall asleep at night and that was if I was lucky, but now that I’m using this breathing method I am falling asleep quickly and sleeping soundly.
Featuring Aileen Day - Photo by Paul Garrett
Magnesium, Alcohol, Water and Sleep
Before reading further you should also know that I am taking 400 mg of magnesium (which is good for sleep) in the evening and I have also cut out having a glass of wine in the evening. Furthermore, I have increased the amount of filtered water that I drink each day. All of these adjustments are also contributing to better sleep for me.
Who Is Wim Hoff?
Wim Hoff, aka “The Iceman” is an internationally renown extreme sports athlete who holds world records for withstanding extreme temperatures including climbing Mt. Everest in shorts and submerging himself in ice for almost 2 hours. In order to physically and emotionally endure such activities he has pioneered a method that includes breathing exercises, meditation and cold emersion. Through this method he is able to regulate his body’s autonomic nervous system, which regulates the organs and other internal states of the body.
Benefits of the Wim Hoff Method
Boost your immune system
Improve your sleep
improve mental focus
Improve your ability to handle cold
Increase your energy
Lower your levels of stress
May help reduce depression and symptoms of PTSD
Featuring Annie James - Photo by Paul Garrett
How I Use the Wim Hoff Breathing Method for Sleep
When I am ready do go to sleep, I prop up pillows behind my back and against the wall for comfort on my bed in a dark room. I then sit with my back strait and my legs crossed in lotus position. Once I am sitting comfortably I play the guided breathing video by Wim Hoff that you can watch below. This video takes you through three rounds, which start with a period of hyperventilation, that is rapidly breathing in and out without ever pausing. On the last exhale you are guided to hold your breath for one minute. Next you are instructed to take a deep breath in and hold it for 15 seconds before starting into round two, in which the breath holding portion is extended to one and a half minutes. During this round do not be surprise if you feel some tingling in your fingers and coolness upon your skin. You may also start feeling relaxation during this period. The third and final round is identical to round two, after which I feel relaxed and my mind is cleared of thought. At this point I continue on with meditation and sometimes fall asleep while sitting up. In the morning I wake up feeling refreshed and grateful for a night of deep, quality sleep.
Let me know if the Wim Hoff Breathing Method works for you. Like anything new, it may take some practice to gain the full benefits from doing it. Stay with it and you will start mastering your mind, your body and your ability to fall fall asleep faster. You can also use this method in the morning to give your mind clarity and to energize your body. Most people breath in a shallow manner that does not properly deliver oxygen to their body. Through this breathing method you improve your uptake of oxygen, which is healthy for you.
Sleep well,
Paul
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