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

The combination of breathing, meditation and cold training changes the normal stress response to cold and to hypo- and hyperventilation. The normal stress response comprises the immediate release of adrenaline, followed by the production of stress hormones from the pituitary gland in the brain. These stress hormones trigger the production of cortisol by the adrenal glands. Cortisol has a strong impact on our bodies and also controls many functions, including the stimulation of NF-kB activity. However, Hof and his trained group clearly respond to stress differently. This different response is possibly due to the increased pH levels from the special breathing, and the resulting absence of pain and fear. The part of the brain normally stimulated by cold-induced pain is not activated. It does not send a signal—or perhaps it sends a different signal—to the pituitary gland, to change the stress response.