Getting in an ice bath is most certainly what I call stepping out of my comfort zone.

How has the start of the year gone for you? Mine has been rather unpredictable, which has got a lot to do with me saying yes to things I normally wouldn’t. For example, I was invited to a Breathless event that consisted of breath work, sound healing and an ice bath. I jovially informed my lovely host that whilst I love breath work and sound healing I would have to politely decline the invitation since I’m a lizard that can not stand the cold. To my delight Happy Fun Beings encouraged me to come along even if I wasn’t going to get in the ice. So I went with no expectations and all good intentions.

The day started with a chat from Johannes Egberts. He referred to the science and benefits of humans experiencing temperature changes. Naturally he had my attention.

After hearing the science behind the practice we got down to breathing. In all the breath work I’ve done I’ve always learnt to breath slowly and deeply. However, Breathless teaches short sharp breathing. This was a new thing for me that took a bit of getting used to.

The Ice Bath Experience

Luckily we were listening to fabulous live music that helped set the beat to the experience. It brought up so many different emotions for everyone. Some people were crying from grief, I had tears of joy.

Then it was time to face my fears and get in the ice bath. It turned out that I was the only lizard at the event who had a fear of being cold. I really shouldn’t have been surprised. As I was preparing to step in the ice Johannes pointed out the need to stay in the water for a minimum of three minutes to get the health benefits. That was longer than the two minutes I’d convinced myself I could manage.

The good news is that with the support of one of the Breathless coaches Elise I managed to breath my way through three minutes of sitting in ice. When Elise encouraged me to dip my face in for 10 seconds I decided to do it for 20 seconds. Never underestimate the power of a personal cheerleader to remind you of your strengths.

I will confess that I did this experience a few months ago. I haven’t made the time to return yet as it was a real challenge for me. But I am aiming to do at least one more ice bath before winter sets in because I felt so energised for weeks after it. Was it the breath work, sound therapy, ice bath or great community that gave me the buzz? I think it was the whole experience. I really should lock in my next dip.

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