PEAK PERFORMANCEDays to result

Wim Hoff Breathing

Deliberate hyperventilation

Problem it solves

People whose fear or anxiety responses in peak performance contexts prevent them from taking the courageous actions required for meaningful progress.

Best for

Individuals looking to boost their immune system and reduce stress

Not ideal for

People with certain medical conditions, such as glaucoma or pulmonary concerns

Overview

Why this framework exists

Wim Hoff breathing is a technique that involves deliberate hyperventilation to activate the stress response and boost the immune system. This technique has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of infection and improving overall health.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Deliberate hyperventilation can activate the stress response and boost the immune system
  2. The stress response is a natural response to stressors, such as infection or injury
  3. The immune system can be modulated through breathing techniques and other stress-reducing activities

Steps

2 steps
  1. Start with 25 deep inhales and exhales
    Begin by inhaling and exhaling deeply 25 times, followed by an exhale and holding your breath for 15 seconds.
    Pro tipMake sure to breathe deeply and slowly to get the most out of this technique
    WarningDo not attempt this technique if you have certain medical conditions, such as glaucoma or pulmonary concerns
  2. Repeat the cycle
    Repeat the cycle of 25 deep inhales and exhales, followed by an exhale and holding your breath for 15 seconds.
    Pro tipTry to relax and focus on your breathing to get the most out of this technique
    WarningDo not push yourself too hard, as this can lead to lightheadedness or other adverse effects

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Reducing symptoms of infection

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that Wim Hoff breathing reduced symptoms of infection in participants.

OutcomeThe participants who used Wim Hoff breathing had reduced symptoms of infection and improved overall health

Common mistakes

2 traps
Not breathing deeply enough
Not breathing deeply enough can reduce the effectiveness of this technique
Not holding the breath long enough
Not holding the breath long enough can reduce the effectiveness of this technique

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The Wim Hoff breathing technique was developed by Wim Hoff, also known as the Iceman, who used this technique to withstand extreme cold temperatures and improve his overall health.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · PODCAST
Tools for Managing Stress & Anxiety | Huberman Lab Essentials
Andrew Huberman · 2025
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