From Depression, Addiction & Low Energy to Becoming a Total Breathwork Ninja: How to Unlock the Transformative POWER of Breath, Cold Therapy & Sweat Lodges with Michael Nuss and Maximilian Freiler

Ben Greenfield

Jul 27, 2024

Episode description

Many years ago, I interviewed the legendary cold and breathwork guru Wim Hof (you can find those two episodes here and here). Now, I'm thrilled to announce an opportunity to join me for an unforgettable Wim Hof Method adventure this December 11th–15th in the stunning mountains of Germany.

Imagine diving deep into breathwork, cold exposure, mindset training, emotional healing, sweat lodge ceremonies, and much more while surrounded by nature's beauty. Joining me at the immersive Wim Hof retreat isn't just a four-day getaway in the majestic Bavarian Alps — it's a transformative experience you'll cherish for the rest of your life. For more details, you can click here an watch a video about the retreat here (and keep reading to get a taste of what’s to come in today's podcast with Michael Nuss and Maximilian Freiler, the hosts of Wim Hof Method Retreats in Germany, Austria, and Poland).

Michael Nuss is the author of the soon-to-be-released book, Alive: The Real Power of Ice Bathing. He discovered the life-changing power of the Wim Hof Method when grappling with depression and addiction. Using the power of ice, breathwork, and a newly formed mindset, he broke free from his old patterns, trained with Wim Hof, and is now one of the most active Wim Hof instructors in Europe, hosting around 20 retreats each year.

After experiencing a life-altering transformation through the Wim Hof Method, Maximilian Freiler also became one of the leading Wim Hof instructors in Europe. Shifting from a career in investment banking to a path of personal and spiritual development, his journey included training with the Austrian special forces, studying finance and behavioral psychology, and learning in person with people like Laird Hamilton, Ido Portal, and Wim Hof.

In this episode, Michael, Maximilian, and I will explore the scientific links between breathwork, CO2 tolerance, and enhanced cardiovascular function. You'll also get to delve into the remarkable benefits of cold therapy and hear personal narratives ranging from rigorous physical activit

Episode description

Mindsip insights from this episode:

Enhance connection through partner breathwork with "Other Ship"

The speaker uses a partner-based breathwork app called "Other Ship" with his wife to enhance connection and as a form of foreplay.

#breathing

#relationships

Engage in community practice to enhance Wim Hof method experience

The community aspect of practicing with others is considered an unofficial fourth pillar of the Wim Hof method, making the experience more powerful than practicing alone.

#community

Experience adrenaline spike with Wim Hof breathing while lying down

The Wim Hof breathing protocol can spike adrenaline levels higher than a person's first bungee jump, all while lying down in a hospital bed.

#adrenaline

#breathing

Harness intention to regulate body temperature like Wim Hof

Wim Hof was able to regulate his skin temperature during an fMRI study using only his intention, without actively performing the breathing exercises at that moment.

#body-temperature

#mind

Utilize sweat lodge as technology for consciousness and connection

The speakers view ancient traditions like the sweat lodge not just as a heat practice, but as a "technology for our consciousness and for connection.".

#consciousness

#ritual

Integrate apnea training with Wim Hof breathing for balanced CO2 tolerance

Apnea training, which builds tolerance to high CO2, is a complementary practice to Wim Hof breathing, which depletes CO2, training the body to handle both extremes.

#breathing

#exercise

Breathe slowly through the nose to enhance body awareness

A common mistake is breathing too fast and forcefully; a slower pace, even through the nose, is more effective for building body awareness and control.

#awareness

#breathing

Separate Wim Hof breathing from cold exposure techniques

It is crucial to separate the Wim Hof breathing protocol from the cold exposure itself, as the breathing style used while in the cold should be completely different and more controlled.