When I first discovered the power of breathwork and cold exposure, I was skeptical. As a lifelong athlete training and playing sports, I thought I had my health and fitness figured out. But after transitioning to a desk job, I watched my vitality slowly drain away despite maintaining my workout routine. Something was missing.
That’s when I began exploring what science increasingly shows are some of the most fundamental yet overlooked aspects of human health: our breath, our relationship with temperature extremes, and our connection to natural rhythms. What I discovered transformed my approach to health and led me to create the Zen Strength Foundations workshop here in Chiang Mai.
Why These Practices Matter Now More Than Ever
We’re facing an unprecedented health crisis that goes far beyond the obvious metrics of disease and obesity. Despite all our modern conveniences, many of us are struggling with:
- Chronic stress and anxiety
- Poor sleep quality
- Low energy and brain fog
- Compromised immune function
- Suboptimal physical performance
- Disconnection from our bodies’ natural rhythms
“Modern life has disrupted our fundamental biological processes in ways we’re only beginning to understand.”
The good news? The solutions are simpler than you might think.
The Science Behind the Transformation
Research increasingly shows that specific breathing patterns can rapidly shift our nervous system state. For instance, a 2022 study published in Cell Reports Medicine found that just 5 minutes of cyclic sighing (a specific breathing pattern) reduced stress more effectively than meditation.
Similarly, controlled cold exposure has been shown to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Boost immune function
- Increase energy levels
- Improve mental clarity
- Enhance stress resilience
“I normally HATE cold water, but thanks to Jason, I managed my first ice bath! I feel so energized and fresh afterwards!” – Jonas Abelsson
What Makes Zen Strength Foundations Different?
Unlike typical wellness workshops that focus on just one modality, Zen Strength Foundations integrates multiple evidence-based practices into a comprehensive 4-hour experience:
- Scientifically-verified breathing techniques – Learn patterns that can instantly calm your nervous system or boost your energy
- Progressive cold exposure – Master your relationship with cold in a safe, supported environment
- Heat therapy optimization – Experience the profound benefits of contrast therapy
- Movement integration – Discover how to amplify the benefits through proper movement patterns
- Real-time measurements – See tangible improvements in your physiological markers
Most importantly, you’ll learn how to integrate these practices into your daily life for lasting transformation.
As Dennis Owen, who’s been attending my workshops for over a year, explains:
“After 1.5 years of Jason’s workshops, I’m amazed at the results. Not only are the sessions rejuvenating, but they’ve taught me to manage stress effectively in daily life. It’s incredible how this practice trains your brain to react better over time. You’ll walk away invigorated, focused, and feeling great!”
Ready to Transform Your Health?
Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, boost your energy, improve your sleep, or enhance your overall vitality, Zen Strength Foundations provides the tools and knowledge you need to take control of your health.
Not ready to join a workshop yet? Subscribe to my newsletter for free tips and updates on upcoming events.
The Modern Health Crisis: Understanding What’s Really Making Us Sick
After years of working with clients and studying the latest research, I’ve discovered that most modern health issues stem from a fundamental disconnect between our biology and our lifestyle. Let me explain why this matters – and more importantly, what we can do about it.
The Hidden epidemic
While we often focus on obvious health metrics like weight or blood pressure, there’s a deeper crisis affecting nearly everyone I meet. Here are the most common symptoms I see:
Physical Symptoms
- Chronic fatigue despite adequate sleep
- Poor recovery from exercise
- Frequent illness or infections
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Temperature sensitivity
- Shallow breathing patterns
Mental & Emotional Symptoms
- Anxiety and overwhelm
- Brain fog and poor concentration
- Mood swings
- Low stress resilience
- Poor sleep quality
- Feeling “disconnected” from your body
As research published in Cell Reports Medicine shows, these symptoms aren’t just “all in your head.” They’re real physiological responses to modern life – and they’re getting worse.
The Root Causes
Understanding why these problems occur is crucial for solving them. Here are the key factors:
1. Chronic Inflammation
Research shows that chronic, low-grade inflammation underlies many modern health issues. According to a 2022 review, this type of inflammation can be triggered by:
- Chronic stress
- Poor breathing patterns
- Lack of environmental stress (like cold exposure)
- Disrupted circadian rhythms
2. Autonomic Nervous System Imbalance
As Dr. Andrew Huberman explains,
“The brain, by regulating breathing, controls its own excitability.”
Most people today are stuck in a state of chronic sympathetic (fight-or-flight) activation, leading to:
- Increased anxiety
- Poor sleep
- Digestive issues
- Reduced immune function
- Accelerated aging
3. Overbreathing Patterns
According to breathing expert Patrick McKeown, most people today are chronically overbreathing, which can lead to:
- Reduced oxygen delivery to tissues
- Increased anxiety
- Poor sleep quality
- Reduced exercise performance
- Lower stress tolerance
4. Lack of Hormetic Stress
Our bodies evolved to require certain types of stress to function optimally. The absence of these “good stressors” in modern life is problematic. Examples include:
- Temperature variation
- Physical challenges
- Periodic fasting
- Natural light exposure
The Cost of Comfort
Here’s what one of my workshop participants discovered:
“I never realized how much my ‘comfortable’ lifestyle was actually making me weaker. Learning these techniques showed me that embracing certain types of stress actually makes you stronger and more resilient. The difference in my energy and mood is incredible!”
Why Traditional Solutions Often Fail
Many people try to address these issues through:
- Exercise alone
- Restrictive diets
- Supplements
- Meditation apps
While these approaches can be helpful, they often miss the fundamental biological mechanisms that need to be addressed. This is why I created a comprehensive approach that works with your body’s natural systems rather than against them.
The Path Forward
The good news is that these issues can be addressed through specific, science-backed practices that:
- Restore proper breathing patterns
- Balance the autonomic nervous system
- Reduce chronic inflammation
- Build biological resilience
In the next section, I’ll explain exactly how these practices work and the science behind their effectiveness. But if you’re ready to experience these transformative techniques for yourself:
Join Our Next Zen Strength Foundations Workshop
Want to learn more before committing to a workshop? Subscribe to my newsletter for free weekly tips and insights.
The Science of Transformation: How Breathwork, Cold Exposure, and Heat Therapy Optimize Your Health
After years of practicing and teaching these methods, I’ve seen remarkable transformations in people’s health. But what really excites me is the growing body of scientific research validating these ancient practices. Let’s dive into how each component works to optimize your health.
The Power of Breath
Most people don’t realize that how you breathe directly impacts everything from your stress levels to your sleep quality. Here’s what the science shows:
Breathing and Your Nervous System
Research published in Cell Reports Medicine found that specific breathing patterns can:
- Rapidly reduce stress
- Improve heart rate variability
- Enhance focus and mental clarity
- Boost immune function
As breathing expert Patrick McKeown explains, most people are chronically overbreathing, which can actually reduce oxygen delivery to tissues. Think about that – breathing more doesn’t always mean better oxygenation!
The Carbon Dioxide Connection
One critical factor often overlooked is carbon dioxide tolerance. According to research from the Oxygen Advantage:
- CO2 is crucial for oxygen release to tissues
- Better CO2 tolerance = better stress resilience
- Improved breathing efficiency leads to better sleep and recovery
In our workshop, we measure your breathing efficiency before and after, so you can see the immediate improvements.
The Science of Cold Exposure
Cold therapy isn’t just about being tough – it’s about triggering specific biological responses that enhance your health.
What Happens During Cold Exposure
When you enter cold water, several powerful mechanisms activate:
- Norepinephrine Release: Increases by 200-300%, boosting focus and mood
- Brown Fat Activation: Enhances metabolism and energy production
- Anti-inflammatory Response: Reduces systemic inflammation
- Immune System Boost: Increases white blood cell production
One workshop shares:
“It’s incredible how this practice trains your brain to react better over time. You’ll walk away invigorated, focused, and feeling great!”
The Research Behind Ice Baths
Recent studies have shown that regular cold exposure can:
- Reduce inflammation by up to 40%
- Improve sleep quality
- Enhance mental resilience
- Boost metabolism
- Strengthen immune function
Heat Therapy: The Perfect Complement
While cold exposure gets a lot of attention, heat therapy is equally powerful. The research on sauna use is particularly compelling.
Benefits of Heat Exposure
Studies have shown regular sauna use can:
- Reduce risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 50%
- Lower all-cause mortality
- Improve athletic performance
- Enhance detoxification
- Boost mental health
The Power of Contrast Therapy
When combined with cold exposure, heat therapy becomes even more effective. This practice, known as contrast therapy:
- Enhances circulation
- Speeds recovery
- Improves immune function
- Increases mental resilience
The Synergistic Effect
What makes our approach unique is the integration of these practices. Research shows that combining breathwork, cold exposure, and heat therapy creates synergistic effects greater than any single practice alone.
As Dr. Andrew Huberman notes:
“These fundamental biological processes – breathing, temperature regulation, and circadian rhythms – form the foundation of human health and performance.”
In our workshop, you’ll learn how to:
- Master specific breathing techniques for different situations
- Safely build cold tolerance
- Optimize heat exposure
- Combine these practices for maximum benefit
Measurable Results
We don’t just talk about the benefits – we measure them. Workshop participants typically experience:
- Improved breathing efficiency (BOLT score)
- Enhanced heart rate variability
- Better stress resilience
- Increased energy levels
- Improved mental clarity
As Mihir, another workshop participant, shares:
“Felt calm as a cucumber, exactly what I needed in the chaos of the city. This is a perfect spot to really connect with your breath and self.”
Ready to Experience These Benefits Yourself?
Understanding the science is fascinating, but the real transformation comes from experiencing these practices firsthand. In our Zen Strength Foundations workshop, you’ll learn how to implement these powerful techniques in a safe, supported environment.
Want to learn more about the science behind these practices? Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly insights and research updates.
The Zen Strength Foundations Solution: Your Path to Optimal Health
After years of refining these practices and teaching hundreds of students in Chiang Mai, I’ve developed a comprehensive 4-hour workshop that combines the most effective elements of breathwork, cold exposure, and heat therapy. Here’s exactly what you’ll learn and experience.
Your Transformation Journey
1. Initial Assessment
We begin by measuring your current state using several key metrics:
- BOLT score (breathing efficiency)
- Heart rate variability (HRV)
- Breathing patterns
- Physical performance markers
These measurements give you concrete data to track your progress and validate the immediate benefits of the practices.
2. Breathwork Mastery
Everyday Breathing Optimization
First, you’ll learn the foundations of functional breathing:
- Proper nose breathing techniques
- Optimal breathing rhythm
- Diaphragmatic breathing patterns
As one participant, Valeria Sánchez, notes:
“Jason is an exceptional breathwork instructor. His clear guidance creates a deep connection within the group. The breathing exercises brought total peace, relaxing my whole body.”
Advanced Breathing Techniques
You’ll master three powerful breathing protocols:
- Coherence Breathing
- Balances your nervous system
- Reduces stress instantly
- Improves focus and clarity
- Power Breathing
- Boosts energy and alertness
- Enhances cold tolerance
- Strengthens immune function
- Recovery Breathing
- Accelerates physical recovery
- Improves sleep quality
- Reduces inflammation
3. Cold Exposure Training
We use a progressive approach to cold exposure that builds confidence and capability:
Phase 1: Ice Bucket Challenge
- Introduces your body to cold exposure
- Builds mental resilience
- Teaches proper breathing response
Phase 2: Full Ice Bath Immersion
- Guided entry and breathing techniques
- Progressive duration building
- Mental mastery strategies
As Jonas Abelsson shares:
“I normally HATE cold water, but thanks to Jason, I managed my first ice bath! I feel so energized and fresh afterwards!”
4. Heat Therapy Integration
Learn how to optimize the benefits of heat exposure through:
- Proper sauna protocols
- Optimal temperature and duration
- Integration with cold exposure
- Recovery enhancement techniques
5. Movement and Exercise
Discover how to amplify the benefits through:
- Specific pre-cold exposure movements
- Post-exposure activation techniques
- Nitric oxide stimulation exercises
What Makes Our Approach Different
1. Science-Based Methodology
Every technique we teach is grounded in research and validated by real-world experience. We don’t just tell you what to do – we explain why it works.
2. Progressive System
Our step-by-step approach ensures you build confidence and capability safely:
- Start with foundational techniques
- Progress at your own pace
- Master each level before advancing
3. Measurable Results
You’ll see concrete improvements in:
- Breathing efficiency
- Stress resilience
- Energy levels
- Mental clarity
- Physical performance
4. Practical Integration
Learn how to incorporate these practices into your daily life:
- Morning routines
- Stress management tools
- Sleep optimization
- Performance enhancement
5. Ongoing Support
- Access to our community
- Follow-up resources
- Implementation guidelines
Real Results from Real People
Dennis Owen, who’s been practicing these techniques for over 1.5 years, shares:
“After 1.5 years of Jason’s workshops, I’m amazed at the results. Not only are the sessions rejuvenating, but they’ve taught me to manage stress effectively in daily life. It’s incredible how this practice trains your brain to react better over time.”
Investment in Your Health
The Zen Strength Foundations workshop is a 4-hour intensive experience that will transform your relationship with stress, energy, and overall health. Your investment includes:
- Complete breathwork training
- Guided ice bath experience
- Heat therapy session
- Movement instruction
- Pre/post measurements
- Implementation guide
- Community support
Limited Spots Available
To ensure personal attention and optimal experience, we limit each workshop to a small group. Click below to find out when our next session is:
Not ready to join a workshop yet? Subscribe to my newsletter for free weekly tips and implementation strategies.
Preparing for Your Transformation: What to Expect & How to Get Ready
One of the most common questions I get is “How should I prepare for the workshop?” Let me walk you through everything you need to know to get the most out of your Zen Strength Foundations experience.
Before Your Workshop
Essential Preparation
- Sleep Well: Try to get a good night’s rest before the workshop
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours leading up
- Eat Light: Have a light meal 2-3 hours before the session
- Avoid Stimulants: Skip coffee/caffeine on workshop day
- Come Open-Minded: Be ready to challenge your comfort zone
Safety Considerations
While these practices are safe for most people, please consult your healthcare provider if you have:
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Recent surgery
- Pregnancy
- Epilepsy
- Severe asthma
Your Workshop Journey
1. Welcome & Introduction (30 minutes)
- Group introductions
- Initial measurements
- Setting intentions
- Safety briefing
2. Breathwork Foundations (45 minutes)
We begin with the foundations of optimal breathing. As Dr. Andrew Huberman notes:
“Breathing is unique among bodily functions in that it’s both unconscious and under our voluntary control. This makes it a powerful gateway to influence our nervous system.”
You’ll learn:
- Proper nasal breathing technique
- Diaphragmatic breathing
- Coherence breathing patterns
- Power breathing methods
3. Cold Exposure Training (60 minutes)
We use a progressive approach that’s been proven effective for hundreds of participants:
Phase One: Mental Preparation
- Understanding cold shock response
- Breathing techniques for cold
- Mindset strategies
Phase Two: Gradual Exposure
- Hand immersion exercises
- Face immersion practice
- Breathing pattern integration
Phase Three: Full Immersion
- Guided ice bath experience
- Proper entry technique
- Optimal duration building
- Group support
As Mihir experienced:
“Felt calm as a cucumber, exactly what I needed in the chaos of the city. This is a perfect spot to really connect with your breath and self.”
4. Movement & Integration (45 minutes)
Learn how to:
- Optimize pre-cold preparation
- Enhance post-cold recovery
- Stimulate nitric oxide production
- Integrate movement patterns
5. Heat Therapy (45 minutes)
- Proper sauna protocols
- Temperature optimization
- Integration with cold exposure
- Recovery enhancement
6. Final Integration (15 minutes)
- Follow-up measurements
- Progress assessment
- Implementation planning
- Next steps
Your Investment in Transformation
The Workshop Includes:
- 4 hours of expert guidance
- Small group setting (maximum 8 participants)
- All necessary equipment
- Pre/post measurements
- Implementation guide
- Community support
- Follow-up resources
Value-Added Benefits:
- Lifetime access to technique videos
- Private Facebook group access
- Email support
- Workshop materials
What Past Participants Say
Dennis Owen shares his long-term experience:
“After 1.5 years of Jason’s workshops, I’m amazed at the results. Not only are the sessions rejuvenating, but they’ve taught me to manage stress effectively in daily life.”
Valeria Sánchez on the learning experience:
“Jason’s calm motivation was invaluable. If you want to push your limits in a supportive environment, I 100% recommend this experience!”
Your Next Steps
1. Book Your Spot
Our next workshop is here:
Reserve Your Transformation Now
2. Stay Connected
Can’t make the workshop? Want to learn more first? Subscribe to my newsletter for:
- Weekly health tips
- Workshop updates
- Implementation strategies
- Success stories
3. Start Simple
While waiting for your workshop, you can begin with:
- Practicing nasal breathing
- Taking cooler showers
- Basic breathing exercises
- Gentle movement patterns
My Personal Promise
Having guided 1000+ people through this transformation, I can confidently say that if you come with an open mind and follow the process, you’ll experience profound shifts in your health and well-being. The techniques you’ll learn are the same ones I use daily and have been validated by both science and real-world experience.
Ready to begin your transformation?
Frequently Asked Questions About Zen Strength Foundations
After leading hundreds of workshops in Chiang Mai, I’ve heard just about every question you might have. Here are the most common ones, along with detailed answers to help you make an informed decision.
About the Workshop Experience
“Is this going to be too intense for me?”
This is probably the #1 concern I hear, and I completely understand. Here’s the truth: while these practices can be powerful, we use a progressive approach that meets you where you are. As Dennis Owen explains:
“You’ll walk away invigorated, focused, and feeling great!”
Every technique is scalable, and you’re always in control. We start gently and build at your pace.
“I’m not athletic/young/fit enough. Can I still participate?”
Absolutely! I’ve guided people of all ages and fitness levels through these practices. The techniques we teach are fundamentally about working with your body’s natural systems, not against them. One participant, Valeria Sánchez, shares:
“Jason’s clear guidance creates a deep connection within the group. If you want to push your limits in a supportive environment, I 100% recommend this experience!”
“How cold is the ice bath really?”
We maintain the water temperature between 50-59°F (10-15°C). While this might sound cold, our progressive approach and breathing techniques make it very manageable. Remember Jonas Abelsson’s experience:
“I normally HATE cold water, but thanks to Jason, I managed my first ice bath! I feel so energized and fresh afterwards!”
“What if I panic in the cold water?”
Your safety and comfort are my top priorities. We:
- Start with gradual exposure
- Never force or pressure anyone
- Teach specific techniques to stay calm
- Provide constant support and guidance
- Allow you to exit anytime
About the Benefits
“How quickly will I notice results?”
Many benefits are immediate:
- Reduced stress levels
- Increased energy
- Improved mental clarity
- Enhanced mood
- Better breathing awareness
Long-term benefits, as shown by research, include:
- Improved stress resilience
- Enhanced immune function
- Better sleep quality
- Increased cold tolerance
- Improved cardiovascular health
“Will this help with my specific condition?”
While I can’t make medical claims, research shows these practices can benefit:
- Stress and anxiety
- Sleep issues
- Low energy
- Poor recovery
- Immune function
- Mental clarity
Always consult your healthcare provider about specific medical conditions.
Practical Concerns
“What should I eat before the workshop?”
- Eat a light meal 2-3 hours before
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid caffeine on workshop day
- Skip heavy or spicy foods
“What if I can’t make it to this workshop?”
No problem! You have several options:
- Join my newsletter for future dates
- Contact me about private sessions
- Get on the waiting list for next month
“Is it worth the investment?”
Consider this: you’re not just paying for a 4-hour experience. You’re investing in:
- Lifetime skills for health optimization
- Science-backed techniques for stress management
- A comprehensive approach to resilience
- Ongoing community support
- Practical tools you can use daily
As Mihir notes:
“This is a perfect spot to really connect with your breath and self.”
Safety Questions
“Who should NOT participate?”
While these practices are safe for most people, please consult your doctor first if you have:
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Heart conditions
- Recent surgery
- Pregnancy
- Raynaud’s syndrome
- Severe asthma
“What if I need to stop during the workshop?”
You can pause or modify any activity at any time. There’s no pressure to do anything you’re not comfortable with.
Next Steps
“I’m interested but nervous. What should I do?”
- Subscribe to my newsletter to learn more
- Follow my social media for daily tips
- Reach out with specific questions
- Start with basic breathing practices at home
“I’m ready! How do I sign up?”
Great! Here are your next steps:
- Book your spot for our next workshop
- Review the preparation guidelines above
- Come with an open mind and ready to transform
Still Have Questions?
I’m always happy to discuss how these practices can benefit you specifically. Reach out directly or subscribe to my newsletter for regular updates and insights.
Ready to transform your health?
Your Journey to Optimal Health Begins Here
I want to share something personal with you. As a lifelong athlete, I’ve seen firsthand how fragile health can be. But I’ve also witnessed the incredible resilience of the human body when given the right tools and conditions to thrive.
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
We’re living in unprecedented times where:
- Stress levels are at historic highs
- Chronic health issues are becoming normalized
- Mental health challenges are increasingly common
- Our connection to natural rhythms is more disrupted than ever
Yet research shows that simple, natural practices can create profound transformations in our health and well-being.
The Power of Integration
What makes Zen Strength Foundations unique is the integration of three powerful elements:
1. Breathwork
As Dr. Andrew Huberman notes:
“Breathing is unique among brain and bodily functions in that it lies at the interface between our conscious and our subconscious behavior.”
2. Cold Exposure
Research demonstrates that controlled cold exposure can:
- Boost immune function
- Reduce inflammation
- Enhance mental resilience
- Improve energy levels
3. Heat Therapy
Studies show regular heat exposure:
- Reduces cardiovascular risk
- Improves recovery
- Enhances mental health
- Promotes longevity
Real Transformations
Don’t just take my word for it. Here’s what participants experience:
“After 1.5 years of Jason’s workshops, I’m amazed at the results. Not only are the sessions rejuvenating, but they’ve taught me to manage stress effectively in daily life.” – Dennis Owen
“Felt calm as a cucumber, exactly what I needed in the chaos of the city.” – Mihir
“Jason is an exceptional breathwork instructor. His clear guidance creates a deep connection within the group.” – Valeria Sánchez
Your Next Step
The journey to optimal health isn’t about radical changes or extreme measures. It’s about reconnecting with our body’s innate wisdom and natural rhythms. In just 4 hours, you’ll learn lifetime tools for:
- Stress management
- Energy optimization
- Mental clarity
- Physical resilience
- Emotional balance
The Workshop Includes:
- Comprehensive breathwork training
- Guided cold exposure
- Heat therapy optimization
- Movement integration
- Pre/post measurements
- Implementation strategies
- Community support
Two Ways to Begin Your Journey
1. Join Our Next Workshop
Reserve Your Transformation Now
2. Stay Connected
Not ready for the full workshop yet? Subscribe to my newsletter for:
- Weekly health tips
- Exercise guides
- Breathing techniques
- Workshop updates
My Personal Invitation
After guiding over 1000 people through this transformation, I can say with confidence that these practices work. They worked for me when I was struggling with the transition from firefighting to a desk job. They’ve worked for countless others dealing with stress, low energy, and health challenges.
Now it’s your turn.
Join us for the next Zen Strength Foundations workshop and discover:
- How strong you really are
- What optimal health feels like
- The power of community support
- Tools for lasting transformation
Take Action Now
Don’t let another day pass feeling stressed, tired, or disconnected from your full potential. Whether you’re ready to dive in with the full workshop or want to start with small steps through the newsletter, take action today.
Ready for Transformation?
Want to Learn More?
Remember what Dennis discovered:
“It’s incredible how this practice trains your brain to react better over time. You’ll walk away invigorated, focused, and feeling great!”
Your journey to optimal health begins with a single step. Take it today.
This is more than just a workshop – it’s an investment in your health, vitality, and future well-being. Join us and discover what you’re truly capable of.