![]() Research has demonstrated that these techniques can contribute to stress reduction 10, and lower BP 11, 12 underscoring their potential therapeutic impact on cardiovascular health. ![]() Even though acute cold water exposure represents a significant cardiovascular stress stimulus and poses a significant risk of death, particularly for those with underlying structural heart disease, regular cold water exposure has been reported to enhance cardiovascular health through various adaptive mechanisms 3.īreathing exercises have garnered considerable attention as promising approaches for both the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, positive effects of regular cold water immersion on feelings of energy, pain relief, and overall well-being have been documented 9. 6 show that mindfulness meditation programs can lead to moderate reductions in various dimensions of psychological stress.Ĭold water immersion is hypothesized to result in increased body sturdiness, inter alia, through long-term antioxidative adaptation 7, and an increase in several components of the immune system 8. Mindfulness-based interventions aim to reduce blood pressure (BP) by employing stress-reduction techniques, including meditation, which are designed to foster a state of inner awareness and calmness 5. A recent meta-analysis by Shi and colleagues 2 reveals a decrease in systolic BP of up to − 6 mmHg and in diastolic BP of up to − 4 mmHg following various mindfulness-based interventions. Mindfulness-based interventions 2, cold water immersion 3, and breathing exercises 4 have been discussed as possible approaches to reduce cardiovascular risk and may be used as complementary therapies in cardiovascular prevention. Besides pharmacotherapy and lifestyle changes, additional modalities are gaining popularity as treatment approaches. Despite the availability of established prevention and treatment approaches, CVDs have remained the leading cause of disease burden for decades. In 2019 CVDs accounted for 17.9 million deaths, representing 32% of all deaths across the globe 1. ![]() Performing the WHM daily did not exert positive effects on cardiovascular and psychological parameters.Ĭardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide 1. Furthermore, perceived stress (PSS), positive affect (PANAS+), negative affect (PANAS−), and subjective vitality (trait (SVSt) and state (SVSs)) was determined. Before and after the intervention, systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), pulse wave velocity (PWV), heart rate (HR), root mean sum of squared distance (RMSSD), and standard deviation of RR-intervals (SDNN) were assessed at rest and during a CPT. ![]() Throughout the 15 days intervention, the IG performed the WHM daily. Forty two participants were randomized into an intervention (IG) and a control group. This study evaluated the effects of a 15 days WHM intervention on cardiovascular parameters at rest and during a cold pressor test (CPT), as well as on various psychological parameters. The Wim Hof method (WHM) is a multi-disciplinary approach to physical and mental well-being combining cold exposure, breathing exercises, and meditation.
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