The Way of the Iceman: How the Wim Hof Method Creates Radiant Long-term Health—Using the Science and Secrets of Breath Control, Cold-Training and Commitment

by Wim Hof

When you expose yourself to the cold, by stepping into a cold lake for example, your body automatically closes off blood flow to the less vital parts of your body. That is necessary because your body temperature must not fall below 35°C (95°F). It is more important that your heart keeps beating than that your little toe gets enough blood. Your body is smart enough to give priority to your heart and your other vital organs. Your arms and legs get less blood as their blood vessels contract. This ensures that your vital organs—your heart, liver, lungs and kidneys—get enough blood to continue working. Your arms and legs will start to tingle and you might feel a burning sensation. When the body warms up again, the blood vessels open up and your circulation normalizes. By exposing your body to the cold, you can train your blood vessels by closing them forcefully, then making them open again. It’s like training your muscles.