Cyclical hyperventilation is an effective controlled breathing exercise that can ‘rev up’ and ‘slow down’ the nervous system. Whilst it has been practised for many years, it has recently been popularised by ‘The Ice Man’ Wim Hof. This technique deliberately stresses the body, may cause tingling or lightheadedness, and can affect motor control. Please check with your physician for contraindications, and never practice when driving or near water. This breathing exercise aims to reduce levels of oxygen in the blood, causing the release of adrenaline and sending the nervous system into ‘fight or flight’ mode. This puts the body into a state of stress, increasing alertness and improving the ability to concentrate. As well as increasing alertness, this breathing method can raise energy output, improve sleep quality, and help support neuroplasticity.
While the brain cannot detect oxygen levels within the bloodstream, it measures carbon dioxide concentrations. As levels of carbon dioxide increase, nitric oxide is released to increase heart and breathing rates, while the body attempts to lower carbon dioxide and improve blood oxygenation. Elevated levels of carbon dioxide have been shown to hinder cognitive function; however, they can activate the sympathetic nervous system, which governs the ‘fight or flight’ response. When the body enters this mode, it impacts upon many different organs, including the heart, lungs and skin, as well as affecting the eyes, ears and blood. Whilst in this state, we gain sharper focus and consolidate memories.
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David D. Fuller, Gordon S. Mitchell, Respiratory neuroplasticity – Overview, significance and future directions, Experimental Neurology, Volume 287, Part 2, 2017, Pages 144-152
Stanford University 2022 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05304000