The Iceman Effect

Reflections on Cold Plunging, Gratitude, and Human Experience

I am not a bandwagon guy. I have a bit of a pioneer spirit. I like to be the guy discovering the next thing. Not following along with what others are doing. 

However.

When I jump on the faddish bandwagon, I’m not too proud to admit it.

Enter: Dutch motivational speaker Wim Hof (aka The Iceman) who has popularized Cold Plunging, or submerging one’s body in near-freezing waters for the numerous health benefits.

The idea of cold plunging wasn’t a foreign concept to me. On various backpacking trips to Alaska, the guys and I would occasionally drop our packs, strip down, and dive into the glacial waters. Sure, it’s shocking. But it was also invigorating, many times giving us an emotional boost to finish our trek for the day.

As I recently began to research some of the health benefit claims by The Iceman, I decided to buy a 100-gallon tank and put it on my patio. It’s not fancy. Just black plastic. I knew the cold nights would bring the water temperature down to near freezing each morning. A month ago, I started each day by spending three minutes in icy water.

Around the same time, I thought it would be a good idea to spend those few minutes recounting all the things I’m grateful for. It is certainly a discipline to meditate on anything other than numb limbs, but I do it every morning. I have to tell you, my mood has been exceedingly positive. The dopamine and endorphin rush accompanying thoughts of gratitude have really had a profound impact on me.

But I have to tell you.

A few mornings ago, I had a difficult time putting myself in a gracious state. I could only think of friends and family who are hurting and suffering right now. I sat in the frigid waters beneath the starry and dark morning sky and ached. I know our sufferings do not cancel out our joys, our pain does not erase our delight, nor does sadness diminish our gratitude. We have to acknowledge each of them as part of this human experience and hold them all in tension. But this Christmas, I want to express that you are seen and loved. And to the extent that we are able, we walk in solidarity with you in this painful season, carrying your burden and reminding you that there is still so much to be thankful for, even when it’s difficult to articulate.

Question

1. How can I embrace both the challenges and blessings in my life, acknowledging suffering while cultivating gratitude in the midst of difficult circumstances?

Peace and love,

Brandon