In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the mindset and lifestyle of seniors. Retirement was once thought of as a time for slowing down, but seniors today are embracing a more active and health-conscious lifestyle. With an increased awareness about the importance of fitness and wellness, and a desire to live life to the fullest in their later years, seniors are prioritising health and wellbeing like never before!
One of the reasons seniors are staying so health focused and active is because these days there are so many exciting and innovative ways to do so. From tai chi, yoga, meditation, Zumba, reformer Pilates, infrared sauna, and steam rooms, to tailored fitness classes, gentle movement, cycling classes, float therapy, and so much more, there really is something for everyone, making staying fit and healthy that much more enjoyable!
In recent years, the ‘Wim Hoff Method’ has become increasingly popular among the senior community, especially for those with special interest in improving their immunity, increasing their energy, and lowering inflammation.
SO, WHAT IS IT?
“The Wim Hoff Method can be defined by it’s simple, easy to apply approach and its strong scientific foundation. It’s a practical way to become happier, healthier, and stronger.”
The ‘Wim Hoff Method’ is a breathing technique and cold exposure therapy developed by Wim Hoff, also known as ‘The Iceman’, who coined his nickname for his feats in the extreme cold. It combines specific breathing exercises, cold exposure, and meditation to enhance physical and mental wellbeing.
The method is based on the idea that through controlled breathing and exposure to cold temperatures, you can increase your energy level, improve focus, reduce stress, and strengthen your immune system!
It has gained huge popularity in recent years, with many advocates claiming that they have seen huge benefits from regular practice!
THE BENEFITS.
There are many benefits of the Wim Hoff Method, for both your physical and mental health.
The physical health benefits include more energy, lowering inflammation, increasing sports performance, autoimmune disease relief, fibromyalgia relief, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease relief, overcoming MS, lowering blood pressure, positive stress, boosting immunity, better sleep, workout recovery, arthritis relief, post-treatment lyme disease syndrome, migraine relief, asthma management, improved metabolism, athletic performance, cardiovascular system benefits, and more!
The mental health benefits include burnout prevention and recovery, concentration boost, depression management, increased happiness, controlling the automatic nervous system, stress relief, increased willpower, improved mind-body connection, improved creativity, endorphins boost, stress control, vagus nerve stimulation, and peaceful mind.
As we move into our senior years, many of us can be faced with various health concerns. If these benefits sound like they could improve your quality of life, why not give the Wim Hoff Method a try! Here’s how you can apply it:
COLD THERAPY.
Frequent exposure to cold is linked to a variety of physical and mental health benefits, and there are a few ways you can practice it. Cryotherapy is characterized by standing in a sealed container for a short period of time, while extremely cold air is circulated around the body. This option however can be expensive and is not readily available, so many people choose to practice the Wim Hoff Method as an affordable alternative through ice baths and cold showers, which you can do in the comfort of your own home!
BREATHING METHOD.
The Wim Hoff breathing method is something you can practice whenever you want and in the comfort of your own home. It is believed to work through several mechanisms, including:
Oxygenation – the deep and rapid breathing increases oxygen levels in the body, leading to elevated oxygen saturation in the blood which can potentially improve overall oxygenation of tissues and organs, promoting a sense of well-being and vitality.
Influence on the autonomic nervous system – the specific breathing pattern may activate the sympathetic nervous system (responsible for the ‘fight or flight’ response) and decrease activity in the parasympathetic nervous system (associated with relaxation and rest), leading to increased alertness, improved focus, and energisation.
Altered PH levels – the rapid and deep breathing can lead to changes in the body’s PH levels, resulting in blood alkalinity which has been suggested to affect various physiological processes and potentially contribute to the benefits of the method.
Mind-body connection – the method incorporates elements of meditation and mindfulness which strengthen the mind-body connection, contributing to stress reduction, improved mental clarity, and a sense of calmness.
You can find the steps to the Wim Hof breathing method here: https://www.wimhofmethod.com/breathing-exercises
COMMITMENT.
The third pillar of the Wim Hoff Method alongside cold therapy and breathing exercises is commitment, which refers to the dedication and consistency required to practice the method regularly and completely embrace its principles in order to see results and achieve the benefits.
To find out more, visit https://www.wimhofmethod.com/
