Breathwork & Ice Baths with Dan Hughes,
Wim Hof Method Certified Instructor of Vitae Vi
Nestled next to a picturesque meadow, where horses lazily graze under the summer sun, Dan and Karyn have created a haven at the WOW Clinic in Westbourne, West Sussex, for those seeking to explore the transformative power of the Wim Hof Method. Their warm hospitality and the stunning location provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience in the breathwork and cold exposure of the “Method”.
The Wim Hof Method, developed by Dutch extreme athlete Wim Hof, combines deep breathing exercises, cold therapy, and commitment to enhance mental and physical health.
Dan Hughes, a certified Wim Hof Method instructor, guided the group of participants through the three pillars of the Wim Hof Method. This involved learning how to target the breath to under-used parts of the lungs and some powerful breathing exercises, with Dan as a calm and reassuring presence. Participants were taken through some safety aspects, some of the science before they began with guided breathwork, which involved a series of controlled deep breaths followed by breath retention. This technique alkalises the blood and oxygenates the body, leading to increased energy, reduced stress levels & inflammation, and a heightened sense of well-being. Dan’s expertise and genuine care created a safe and supportive environment, allowing everyone to fully immerse themselves in the practice.
Following the breathwork session, we were taken through the understanding of comfort zones, limiting beliefs and the power of positive affirmation before we all moved on to the ice bath (rubber ducks included). Positioned in a tranquil setting, the ice bath became more than just a physical challenge; it was a moment of profound connection with nature. Surrounded by the gentle rustling of the grass and the occasional whinny of the horses, the cold immersion felt almost meditative.
Stepping into the icy water, participants initially felt the shock of the cold, but with Dan’s guidance and reassurance, they had learned to control their breath and embrace the sensation. The ice bath invigorates the body & mind, boosts the immune system, and promotes recovery by reducing inflammation. Emerging from the water, there was a shared sense of accomplishment and newfound resilience.
A crucial pillar of the Wim Hof Method is mindset, which Dan and Karyn emphasised throughout the experience. Adopting a positive, determined mindset is essential to overcoming the physical and mental challenges of breathwork and cold exposure. By cultivating a strong mental attitude, participants learned to push beyond their perceived limits and embrace discomfort as a pathway to growth. This shift in perspective not only enhances the benefits of the practice but also fosters resilience and mental clarity in daily life. This transformative mindset leaves participants empowered and ready to tackle new challenges with confidence.
If you can make the decision to step into an ice bath, you’ve gained a super-power right?!
The combination of breathwork and ice bathing in such a serene and natural setting made this experience truly special. It offered a unique opportunity to reconnect with oneself and nature. It’s a journey that not only strengthens the body but also calms the mind and lifts the spirit.
Before attending this workshop, I had a portable ice bath at home that I had been too intimidated to use. It stood by the coat rack as a constant reminder of a challenge I wasn’t ready to face. However, experiencing the Wim Hof Method in such a supportive environment has given me the confidence and inspiration to fully embrace this practice. Encouraged by the transformative effects of the breathwork and the invigorating ice bath, I now aim to incorporate these elements into my daily routine. What once seemed daunting now feels like an exciting journey towards better health and resilience.
For those seeking a powerful reset, this workshop is truly transformative. Dan’s knowledge & passion, as well as Karyn’s support, combined with the meadow’s beauty, creates an unparalleled experience that leaves participants feeling refreshed, empowered, and deeply connected to the world around them.
Dan and Karyn, through their company Vitae Vi (a Latin translation for ‘Life Force’), offer other workshops and classes including Oxygen Advantage functional breath classes to help with day-to-day stress management, the reduction of anxiety, relief of chronic illness and pain, focus, attention, performance, recovery & great sleep. They work with individuals, groups and corporate clients.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch at www.vitaevi.co.uk to find out more or email hello@vitaevi.co.uk
Main – Photo by NEOSiAM 2024+
