The Wim Hof Method on Lake Constance

At the Buff Medical Resort

With us, the breathing technique according to Wim Hof is part of the wellness programme: a guided session in a calm setting. You practise under guidance, so that you can engage with the breathing calmly and safely.

The exercise fits into your stay: you stay in a room or suite (28–300 m²) with interiors of Swiss stone pine from the Engadin – all rooms and suites facing south towards the lake, with a view across the park to Lake Constance. You enjoy our light organic gourmet cuisine Buff GourMed and, as you wish, complement the breathing exercises with a session in the pool landscape by the lake, a session in the yoga room, meditation or a massage. The medical area always remains optional – pure wellness and hotel guests are expressly welcome with us.

What is the Wim Hof Method?

The method goes back to the Dutchman Wim Hof, known as the "Iceman". It rests on three pillars: a special breathing technique, gradual acclimatisation to cold and mental focus. At the resort, the breathing technique is the focus – you learn it calmly under guidance.

At the heart of the breathing exercise are repeated cycles: you breathe deeply and vigorously in for about 30 to 40 breaths and out again without effort. Then you breathe out and hold your breath for as long as it feels comfortable. Afterwards you take one deep breath in and hold it briefly. This cycle is repeated several times. Conscious, rhythmic breathing briefly changes the ratio of oxygen and CO₂ in the blood – many people describe this as a pleasant tingling or as a clear, alert state.

Benefits

The breathing technique is said to engage the autonomic nervous system, which controls many unconscious bodily functions. Many practitioners feel more energy and resilience after the exercises and feel calmer, more alert and more balanced. The technique can help to deal with stress more consciously and to bring a brief moment of focus into the day.

We understand the breathing technique as a wellness experience, not as a therapy: it is not a medical treatment and does not replace medical care. If you have any health complaints, please have them assessed by a doctor.

What to expect

After a short introduction, you practise the breathing cycles lying down or seated under guidance; a session lasts around 25 minutes. Important: the exercise always takes place in a safe environment – never in water, under the shower or while standing, as brief dizziness can occur. If you have cardiovascular conditions or epilepsy, or are pregnant, please discuss the exercise with your doctor beforehand.

More than movement: your health in view

If you would like to go deeper, it is worth taking a look at our Programmes. The spectrum ranges from low-threshold breathing and relaxation services through targeted diagnostics to specialised focuses: from gut health according to F. X. Mayr through high-altitude climate and IHHT to cardiology, sports and exercise medicine. This way you can – entirely as you wish and without obligation – learn more about your body.