Why Have Ice Baths Become Popular?

Ice baths have gained popularity in recent years thanks to the Wim Hof Method, a tool based on three pillars: breathing, mindset, and gradual exposure to the cold. 

When you experience the benefits of cold exposure, you understand why it has become so popular. Here are some of them: it strengthens your immune system, improves your blood circulation, and helps with the release of adrenaline and dopamine, which gives you more energy and motivation. Moreover, it acts as a hormetic stressor, making your body stronger and more resilient, helping you manage daily stress more effectively. 

There are other benefits beyond the physical ones, which are the ones that have resonated most with us. Exposing yourself to the cold is a way to bring your attention to the present moment, being fully here and now. If you find it hard to meditate, this practice can facilitate it. It’s also a way to learn to navigate discomfort, to quiet your mind, trust your body’s wisdom, and expand your mental limits. The benefits of this practice are numerous, but they don’t come from immersing yourself in ice just once; it requires consistent practice. 

As certified instructors, we suggest you seek a qualified guide for your process for two main reasons. The first is safety. Remember that not everything is for everyone; your guide should ask about your health status before any practice. When subjecting your body to stress, there are aspects to consider, and there are also contraindications. Not everyone reacts the same way, and your guide must be prepared to know how to respond in each situation. 

The second reason is that an ice bath can remain a simple experience or become a habit that completely changes your lifestyle. Therefore, we recommend going to someone who deeply understands the subject, so they can explain everything you need to know comprehensively. When you are told what happens, why you are doing it, and how you can continue practicing it safely, you can explore the full potential that this tool offers. 

What we have mentioned so far refers only to ice baths, one of the pillars of the Wim Hof Method, which is a much more comprehensive tool. Delving deeper into this method helps you become more responsible for what happens in your life so that through your habits, you can generate more happiness, health, and strength. It is a practice that will help you live in harmony, in balance, and connect with the human potential you have to expand your limits beyond what you could imagine. We are in Puebla, but if you want to find a certified instructor closer to you, you can visit the official Wim Hof Method website.