Breathing is something we all do—often without a second thought. Yet, according to Anna Grozdanova, certified instructor of the Wim Hof Method and Oxygen Advantage, and co-founder of the Womeno platform, our breath holds a powerful key to improving our health, reducing stress, and enhancing longevity.
In a recent interview for the “50 Reasons More” program on Radio Focus, Anna shared how two simple, accessible practices—the Wim Hof Method and Oxygen Advantage—can create profound shifts in our physical and emotional wellbeing. These approaches, rooted in conscious breathing, cold exposure, and mental focus, are tools that help us reconnect with our body’s natural resilience and vitality.
Rediscovering Optimal Breathing
“The breathing we take for granted, that we do every day without awareness, can actually be the cause of many health issues—without us even realizing it,” Anna explains.
While the Wim Hof Method combines breathwork, cold exposure, and mindset training, the Oxygen Advantage focuses more specifically on restoring functional breathing. According to Anna, slowing down our breath and learning to breathe correctly can help the body shift from a chronic stress state into one of rest, balance, and repair.
This idea is supported by both ancient wisdom and modern science. In Vedic philosophy, it is said that each person is born with a set number of breaths—and the faster we use them up, the shorter our life may be. Science now supports this connection between rapid breathing and stress: shallow, fast breathing increases cortisol and adrenaline levels, destabilizing the immune system, digestion, and heart function. Over time, this leads to chronic stress and related diseases.
“When we learn to slow our breath, to supply oxygen efficiently to our cells, we enable the body to function the way it’s meant to. Energy production improves, and all systems—digestive, cardiovascular, immune—start working in harmony.”
The Power of Cold, Breath, and Meditation
What makes the Wim Hof Method particularly appealing is its holistic nature. It blends three core pillars: breathing exercises, cold exposure (like ice baths), and meditation.
“What truly struck me,” Anna shares, “was the deep sense of calm—similar to what one experiences in meditation—that came from practicing the method. It was a feeling of absolute inner peace.”
She points to medical studies showing that regular practice of the Wim Hof Method can help regulate the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and support cardiovascular and immune function.
“These techniques help activate the body’s own healing mechanisms. We’re not adding anything artificial—we’re just helping the body do what it’s already capable of doing.”
Listen to Your Body
While these practices offer many benefits, Anna is clear that they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
“It’s very important to listen to your own body. No matter how effective a method may be, whether it’s backed by science or not, the most important thing is how your body responds. That’s the real guide.”
Supporting Women Through Menopause and Beyond
Anna also highlighted her mission with the Womeno platform, which focuses on supporting women’s health—especially during menopause.
“We found that in Bulgaria, and in many places, there’s a lack of structured, accessible information about menopause. Women often go through it not understanding what’s happening to their bodies, unsure of where to turn.”
Womeno is designed to change that. The platform offers trusted information, tools, and expert advice—both from medical professionals and holistic practitioners—so that women can navigate this phase of life with confidence, clarity, and support.
