Frequently Asked Questions
AN IMPORTANT NOTE ON SAFETY
Do not do deep breath work while driving or while alone in water (bath and ocean alike). If you have questions about any practice on your health, consult your doctor. Ultimately, listen to your body!
Breathwork Questions
Is it normal to get dizzy during breath?
Yes. We are changing and influencing our nervous system through breath, so when this happens, our brain and body react, which can result in light-headedness, dizziness, numbness, and tingling of the fingers, lips, toes, or nose. THESE ARE NORMAL RESPONSES. Keep breathing ;)
What's the difference between mouth breathing and nasal breathing?
Nasal breathing is superior to mouth breathing because it filters, warms, and humidifies the air, promoting better oxygen uptake, enhancing lung function, and supporting overall respiratory health.
Cold Exposure Questions
How often do you get in the cold?
Almost daily, but at least 5 days a week, 2 to 4 minutes each dip.
How often should I get in the cold?
The research suggests that even once a week is beneficial. My recommendation is to get into the ice bath 2 to 4 times per week — and make it part of your routine! Try to stay in the cold for at least 2 minutes on average. (This may be a gradual build up!)
What about going back and forth from a hot tub to a cold tub?
This is called “contrast bathing," and it offers unique health benefits. Per the Soberg Principle, be sure to end on cold to require your body to heat itself up naturally rather than relying on a hot tub or hot shower.
You can bring this principle between cold and hot rotations as well. When you get out of the ice bath, wait at least 2 minutes before getting into the hot tub. Use these 2 minutes to deepen your breath, do some full-body movements (squats, lunges, jumping jacks) to warm yourself up, and then get into the hot tub.
A simple contrast practice: 5 minutes Hot Tub, 2-3 minutes Ice Bath, 1-2 minutes Movement (Repeat for 3 to 5 cycles).
Should I do ice bath before or after working out?
There are benefits to both, but the benefits differ.
Cold exposure before a workout improves blood flow and circulation, which will help make your workout more effective!
Ice-bath after a workout is great for recovery, but studies have shown that you should wait at least 30 minutes to avoid potentially counteracting the optimal benefits of your exercise practice.
Are there any potential risks or precautions I should be aware of when starting these practices?
First and foremost, listen to your body. Also, be sure to practice in a safe environment. And while these practices are safe for everyone, gradual exposure is important. Start slow and ease in. And again, listen to your body.
Please consult with a physician if you have health concerns or conditions that may be affected by cold exposure practices (for instance if you are pregnant or have cardiovascular or any chronic/terminal disease.)