Wim Hof Method for Depression: Randomized Clinical Trial

Does the Wim Hof Method help women with depression?

Both the Wim Hof Method and slow-paced breathing interventions produced equivalent improvements in depression, with a 24% reduction in depressive symptoms and 27% reduction in anxiety symptoms after 3 weeks. A randomized controlled trial of 84 women with high depressive symptoms found that improvements were maintained at 3-month follow-up, with 46% of participants reporting mild or no depressive symptoms.

The Wim Hof Method works by combining rapid breathing and breath-holding to induce intermittent hypoxia, along with cold exposure, which together create hormetic stress responses that may help normalize the stress response system and reduce rumination.

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Wim Hof Method for Women with High Depressive Symptoms: RCT

Can the Wim Hof Method Help Women with Depression?

A randomized controlled clinical trial examines the Wim Hof Method intervention in women with high depressive symptoms. The Wim Hof Method (WHM) is a unique approach that combines specific breathing techniques, cold exposure, and mindset training, developed by Dutch extreme athlete Wim Hof. This method has gained significant attention for its potential to influence the autonomic nervous system, reduce inflammation, and improve stress resilience. This study specifically investigated whether the Wim Hof Method could provide therapeutic benefits for women experiencing high levels of depressive symptoms.

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