There is something so personal in the act of trust. Trusting a space, trusting your community, trusting strangers, trusting friends and family, and during this Wim Hof process there has to be trust in your instructor.
These workshops aren’t just for people to “jump in a tub full of ice.” They are usually a 4 hour commitment for starters. We begin by introductions and stating our “why” for being there. (Which I’ll share at a later date in a separate post.) Sometimes my why is more in-depth, other days it’s short and sweet. Regardless of my mood we go around the room and I’m blessed to be able to hear the “why” of others. (This is one of my favorite parts). How personal and vulnerable, right?! Trust in strangers. To remove ego. To remove or conquer fear of being judged. To be open and honest.
Your instructors then share their “why” and all of this starts the foundation of trust as they guide you into two very intense practices. Everyone’s path looks so different and I find comfort in that, also I find ease when someone’s path looks a little like mine.
We continue and get a history of Wim and the science behind what we’re about to do. Which is truly fascinating, but like with most things you may think it’s total bull shit until you actually try it for yourself.
The breathing method. My absolute favorite part. This is hard to put into words but I’ll do my best. For me, this method has been the most effective form of meditation and a beautiful way of tapping into my subconscious and unconscious mind. So far in this journey I’ve felt such a natural psychedelic feeling. I started by seeing shapes and colors, kind of like a kaleidoscope. But as I do the inner work throughout daily life not just during the workshop, I’ve been opening my third eye and have seen animals and felt feelings I didn’t realize were there.
During my most recent workshop I had a very emotional experience. I saw something I’d uncovered during a recent therapy session, which caused me to cry after our breathing was over and we went around and shared our experiences. This past workshop solidified even more that I am on the right path taking the proper steps. Doesn’t mean I don’t trip and fall, but these validating moments are extreme. That feeling of utter connection and reassurance.
Let’s talk ice. Now this is something I fear every. single. time I’m about to go in. It doesn’t really get any easier, atleast it hasn’t yet. This past workshop was harder. I’m not sure if it was all the emotions prior or my exhaustion from this past week, but I was more scared than normal. Still I got in and pushed through it. Here is where I’ll get a little mushy again. Having the trust that your instructor has got you is everything. Being able to lock eyes and listen to the sound of their voice as they coach you through it. Again being vulnerable, voicing your fears and concerns, and asking questions.
These are things I’m truly grateful for and what I couldn’t do without during this process. Not only feeling blessed to know you and have you as a part of my community Pete, I truly thank you for what you and Jason do. Welcoming this practice into my life and having all the trust in it and in you two is everything.
If anyone is even the least bit curious about The Wim Hof Method please reach out to myself or one of the awesome guys mentioned above. This isn’t for a certain type of person. There is no right or wrong time. We are all looking for something, searching, wondering. Why not do it together?