The power of cold training
We are all familiar with the term "mind over body", but there is a deeper dimension that is often overlooked: "heart over mind over body". This concept is fully expressed in the experience of the ice bath, where all aspects come together. You experience the true meaning of heart strength: you feel peace, have an overview and you receive insights, even while you are in an uncomfortable situation.
​
When you step into the ice bath, your body immediately responds with an alarm signal. Your mind registers this as a warning: "Be careful, this is an unsafe situation." If you get stuck in your head there are two obvious responses to this challenge: flight or fight. In the first option you step out of the ice bath in panic, driven by fear. In the second option, you remain seated out of sheer willpower, your body cramping in an attempt to resist the cold.
​
You need healthy heart strength to regulate this alarm signal without major disruption of your system. Your heart can then respond with: "Thank you head, for this information. I am in control and I know I can handle this from my heart." The power of your breathing & mindset takes you from your head to your heart, from deep trust. With each breath you feel the calm of your heart and release the fear and tension. You rely on the strength of your heart to guide you through this challenge.
​
This experience goes beyond the moment in the ice bath. It teaches you a valuable lesson that you can apply to all stressful situations in your life. When faced with challenges, you don't have to be stuck in your mind's flight-or-fight response. Instead, you can let your heart speak, trusting the inner strength and wisdom that can be found there.
​
The ice bath thus becomes a metaphor for life. It teaches you that true strength does not come from suppressing or avoiding emotions, but from embracing them with an open heart. You experience the peace and overview that come from heart strength, even in the most uncomfortable situations. This profound experience teaches you that you can face any stressful situation in your life with a calm and strong heart.
​
This is the essence of "heart over mind over body". Your heart is the basis of your authentic strength and peace, even in the face of the greatest resistance and challenges. The ice bath is just the beginning of this beautiful journey of self-discovery. A journey that you learn to trust your heart and the power that lies within it. A journey that leads you to a life of inner peace and authentic strength, from your BaseQamp!