Wim Hof Daughter: Michaela Davidoviová here. I live in Bratislava. Linda, my homeschooling daughter, We grow together, study, and discover the world. The Wim Hof Method is crucial in our fascinating life path. We met Martin Thám from Slovakia in May of 2017 for a WHM foundations session. Despite our reluctance to attend, we had to go because we had won the workshop. We started utilizing the method in our daily lives after that.
What a difference it has made! By employing this method, we were able to discover new information. We routinely travel to great natural areas to practice breathing, cold exposure, and meditation. We explore rivers, lakes, and streams, and learn from our environment. Every day we meet new people and learn new things. In 2005, I first started doing yard work to make it more appealing to the eye. I started working immediately after high school graduation. People come to me for massage therapy to relax and unwind. Difficult and terrible circumstances in my life have made me stronger. I’ve got a lot of significant life experience.
My life has been transformed by the Wim Hof Method
Taking care of myself has made it easier to learn, accept change, develop new skills, connect with my body, and have a more vibrant quality of life in general. I was motivated to become a qualified instructor because I firmly believe that these alterations are critical to our well-being. I completely embrace Wim Hof Method. Wim Hof, or “The Iceman”, is a Dutch ice diver famous for his freezing endurance. Mona was weary of having asthma, eczema, and other allergies, so she pushed the “Wim Hof Method” to the extreme. Continue reading about Mona’s ice diving journey here.
Mona, To what extent you like to get into this?
Hi, I’m Mona Lisa. I was raised in a spiritual community near Brienz, Germany, where I now live and work. I adore working with my hands and body outside. That’s why I’m sponsoring the community’s permaculture garden. Since 2012, I’ve worked for myself. I adore the independence that comes with self-employment. Despite my background as a ‘people photographer,’ my approach has developed throughout time. Emotions and personality are now my primary concerns. Work and play are inseparable in my life. It’s impossible for me to do anything without joy.
WHY DO YOU SWIM IN COLD WATER/ICE DIVE
I spent 13 years in and out of hospital owing to atopic eczema, allergies, and asthma. I was eager to attempt the Wim Hof Method after hearing about its immune-boosting benefits. I longed to regain control over my own body. The Wim Hof Method combines breathing, cold exposure, and attitude. I began by inhaling. Cold weather has never been one of my favorites. My favorite time of year was on the Canary Islands with my grandmother at 30°C. I had to take cold showers now. I did it for a short time and loathed it. After that, it was just me and the lake. Something new had happened.
My ability to sit for a brief moment in the chilly autumn lake made me feel strong. It gave me hope and encouraged me to believe in my dreams. It became time for me. During this era, I began meditating in freezing water. I’m at a loss for words. Right now, it’s just me, focusing on my breath and allowing the beauty of nature to wash over me. I had to force myself into the chilly water at first because I didn’t want to freeze, but the feeling I felt afterward hooked me. I found that taking an ice bath made my day better, and I found myself going in the water to unwind even when I didn’t need to.
I started ice diving in the Winter of 2017
A freediving course with Swiss instructor Peter Colt helped me prepare for the Finnish ice diving competition “Päijanne on the Rocks.”. And I discovered my love for diving. Also, I’ve come a long way. I was able to relax and hold my breath for longer than the other participants despite the 18°C water temperature. That was striking because I’ve been informed since infancy that my asthma impacts my breathing. Everything is possible, I was reminded. Your mind limits you.
When I landed in Finland in March 2018, I was on top of a triangle-shaped ice hole. Finally, I attained my goal. As I peered into the ominous depths, I was overcome with dread. I reminded myself not to do anything if I wasn’t ready. I couldn’t help but brace myself as I watched the first group of freedivers emerge from the ice. In my wetsuit, I shivered under the ice. For some reason, I’m afraid to jump into holes. Then I discovered I could simply pull myself from hole to hole. It a much easier than I had anticipated! While getting comfortable in the sauna, I knew I wanted to strip down to my bikini and have a dip. I sat calmly on the ice, concentrating on my breathing.
I was surrounded by like-minded individuals. I wasn’t cold. I was sluggish. Then I went swimming. Inhaling air and diving to the opposite side, I dragged myself on the rope. To my surprise, it was a breeze. I desired to return. My pal Johnny told me to swim. And then I did it again, alone, 11m back. The ice hole reminded me of the triangle-shaped gate to heaven. Then I smiled as I emerged from the water, demonstrating to myself that I can do it. That was the last time I’d ever wear one.
What does it mean to be a woman of cold water?
Women have never directed me in my life. There were none for me to look up to. The film “Johanna under the ice,” starring freediver Johanna Norblad, was quickly given to me by an ice bathing acquaintance. While freediving, she tells her story to the camera. She was the first woman I liked for her job and her flair. Inspiring me to achieve my goals, I want to encourage others to overcome their fears of nature and reclaim control of their bodies and minds. To have a better understanding of themselves and their incredible bodies.
Swimming and scuba diving are two of my favorite pastimes. Time seems to slow down and my senses come alive while I’m submerged. Swimming in any form of water helps me feel strong. It offers me a sense of possibilities. Coldwater has changed my outlook on life. It has given me confidence in my own abilities as well as the abilities of others around me. To reestablish my connection to the natural world, I enjoy swimming in frigid water. (https://flucamp.com/) Truly European in its tenor, I’m taking advantage of the natural beauty around me by getting close to some refreshing water.
What is your favorite swimming spot?
The river in Brienz, Switzerland. I spend so much time in it. Lows in January are -0.6°C, and peaks in September are 15°C. About 30 minutes down the mountain, you’ll find my favorite place. You may cool off in a spectacular swimming hole, complete with a towering waterfall. Under the waterfall, you can get a strong and cold neck massage on one side. This is where I train. Even better, getting home requires a 30-minute slog uphill, which keeps me toasty. My favorite swimming area is Lake Sonnanen in Finland.
