Breathwork and Outdoor Cold Water Immersion Swimming

Join us for this wonderful opportunity to share some breathwork practises selected to help warm the body and calm the mind ready for cold water immersion and swimming.

Breathwork and Outdoor Cold Water Immersion Swimming is suitable for anyone genuinely interested in the benefits of cold water immersion and want to give it a try in a supportive environment.

View our venue for this wonderful morning on September 19th 2023.

What is Breathwork and Cold Water Immersion?

This area of work has been promoted by Wim Hof, a Dutch yogi, over the last few years with amazing responses and science has followed his work to show documented benefits.  We shall be using various pranayama techniques from yoga alongside some visualisation and trance work.

The main idea behind cold therapy is as follows. By willingly exposing our bodies to the stress of the cold, we can regulate our nervous system and learn how to better manage stress.

Cold exposure leads to a range of health benefits for the body’s immune, digestive, and circulatory systems. It taps into the body’s natural healing powers, activating the nervous system and hormones which can significantly change our physiology.  Read on to learn more of the documented benefits.

Improves blood circulation

This is one of the top benefits of cold plunges, hands down.

Blood circulation is among the most important indicators of a person’s health and wellness. Proper blood flow leads to a healthy heart, strong immune system, solid mental health and high levels of energy. Conversely, poor blood circulation in the cardiovascular system—including the heart—causes critical body systems to not work properly. This can lead to issues like headaches, fatigue, muscle cramping, and high blood pressure. In extreme cases, cardiovascular issues can contribute to heart attacks or strokes. Similar to exercise, cold immersion can help improve cardiovascular function.

Reduces inflammation

In the same way that putting an ice pack on an injured muscle reduces swelling and inflammation, submerging in cold water has a similar effect on the entire body. It’s no surprise, then, that cold water immersion therapy is popular among athletes who are looking to recover after intense workouts.

Reduces stress

For anyone facing chronic stress, this among the best upsides of cold water therapy.

These days, high levels of stress are all too common amongst all ages. Thankfully, there are many techniques that can help us manage stress, and cold shock therapy is among them.

Cold immersions stimulate the Vagus nerve, which lowers the heart rate and reduces stress hormones in the body. In addition, hydrotherapy or cold exposure treatments such as ice baths increase the production of mood-elevating hormones and neurotransmitters, including beta endorphins and dopamine. This boosts the Central Nervous System’s capacity and functionality (CNS). A better functioning CNS can help a person to sleep better and prevent sleep disorders such as insomnia.

Boosts the immune system

In another study, doctors found that those who showered with cold water produced higher white blood cell counts than those who didn’t. Medical experts suggest that white blood cells, which fight infections, circulate in the body faster when one is exposed to colder temperatures. This also enhances the body’s antibody and t-cell response.

Increases flexibility and range of motion

This cold water immersion therapy benefit is a game-changer for all the athletes, yogis, and fitness enthusiasts out there. Imagine being able to touch your toes with ease, perform a split without any discomfort, or execute that perfect cartwheel. Well, that’s exactly what ice plunges can do for you!

So, how does it work? When you expose your muscles to cold temperatures, it causes them to contract. This contraction helps to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness, which can make your muscles feel tighter and more stiff. However, when you warm up after a cold plunge, the opposite happens, and your muscles relax and stretch more easily. This increased flexibility can help you perform movements with more ease, reducing your risk of injury and allowing you to reach new heights in your physical pursuits.

Instructor

Sue Hix is fully qualified and highly experienced yoga instructor who will guide you in your class. Learn more about her here.

How to Book

Please contact us for booking details.