Níall O’Murchú is one of Ireland’s only fully qualified Wim-Hof instructors. The Wim-Hof Method was developed to teach people how to learn to control their bodies to achieve exceptional goals Today we chat to Niall about the method and his journey so far…!

Could you tell us about the Wim Hof Method?

The Wim Hof Method is a simple, highly-effective and scientifically-proven way to improve our health, happiness and strength. It uses simple breathing exercises, gradual exposure to the cold and improved focus and concentration to boost our immune system, reduce stress and anxiety, reduce pain, reduce inflammation and increase our energy. It also improves the quality of our sleep, our focus and creativity and more.

How did you get started with it? 

My four children were all under 4 years of age at the time. I was exhausted, stressed and run down. I was struggling with grief as well. One night, I heard Wim Hof talking on a podcast. He explained that anyone could use their breath and the cold to dramatically improve their energy, become more patient and calmer. I wanted that. He explained how we could strengthen our immune system. I wanted that. He explained how we could deal with all types of pressure, such as grief. I wanted that too. So, I started the 10-week course straight away and the benefits were so immediate that I dedicated every cell in my body to learning as much about it as possible.

What kind of benefits has using this method brought to your life?

I used to wake up exhausted. Now, I wake up refreshed. I used to be tired throughout the day. Now, I have loads of energy. I used to struggle to be patient with my children. Now, I’m a better husband, a better father and a better man. I haven’t been sick in years and I now try to enjoy every moment of every day.

Can anybody learn these techniques, and does it take time to master it?

The techniques are simple to learn and the benefits are immediate. But, like with everything, the more your practise them, the more you understand them, the deeper and longer-lasting the benefits. Most people can learn them. But, it is advised that people who are pregnant don’t do them. Or, people who are epileptic.

What happens during one of your breathing workshops?

People learn to breathe in a way that changes for the better how they feel and how they think. They learn that by changing their breath, they can change how they react to all types of pressure. They learn how to change their bodies on the most fundamental level – the cellular level – just by breathing. And of course, they get to test all of that in a bath of ice.

You’ve been working from home during the COVID19 crisis. Tell us what your daily routine is like?

I like new things and I don’t like to do the same things in the same way over and over again. So, my daily routine is always different. I may get up at 5am to meditate. Or, I might get up late and jump into an ice bath. Or, I might wander down to the beach to breathe underneath the stars. But, every day I will spend time breathing, meditating and time in the cold. And of course (and most importantly) plenty of time with my wife Josie and our 4 children.

What’s next for you?

I’m about to launch a 12-week online training programme that will help people reduce stress, anxiety, worry and fear through breathing. Check out www.breathewithniall.com for news about that. Coming soon…

Find out more about Niall at www.breathewithniall.com!