Experience the remarkable life New York Times bestselling author Wim “Iceman” Hof through photos, stories, and original wisdom.What would it be like to live unconditionally, uninhibited, and open to whatever comes your way? This was and is Wim Hof’s path—and it has led him to break world records for endurance and cold exposure, overturn scientific beliefs about what the human body is capable of, and transform the lives of millions. With Exposure, you’ll follow Wim’s journey from the early years to the present, experiencing the heartbreaks, joys, and triumphs of one of today’s most inspirational spiritual leaders.The immersive images from photographer Henny Boogert, Wim’s lifelong friend and chronicler, provide an unprecedented window into the key events of Wim’s life. You’ll experience Wim’s record-shattering feats in the Arctic Circle, on Mt. Kilimanjaro, and more; tender and intimate moments of his family life; the research trials that confirmed “The Iceman” was no hoax; and the extraordinary healing power his method has awakened in those who have learned it. Interwoven into this lavish photographic odyssey are Wim’s poetry, stories, and lessons attained from a lifetime of pushing past boundaries and defying expectations.“This is a book for the dreamer, the person who wants to discover new frontiers,” says Wim. “My wish for you is to live fully every day with playfulness, attention, and soul—knowing that you are capable of so much more than you realize.”
Wim Hof is known as the real life, Iceman since he has personally beat records of conducting ice challenges. He received his first Guinness World Record in 1999, in Paris. He sat with his body in the cold for 30 full minutes. He explained to readers the importance of slowly working your way up in cold conditions. He shared how he had near death experiences from his high-risk challenges. He believed that he was an outcast and for the longest time, he was searching for a way to understand his soul on a deeper level. He has written this book to encourage readers to fully live their lives. We can have our heart and soul and to learn to laugh along the way. We can all do more than we think that we can. He has learned a lot by living in nature. He shared how he met his good friend, Henry and how he has been along for the ride to photography his adventures. He also discussed how he met his wife, Olaya and they had four children together. He shared about how she was in a very dark place in her life. She eventually ended her life in 1995. He explained how being in the cold conditions helped him to live and to heal. He learned how to breathe properly. This helped him to feel his body and to have energy. This taught him discipline and sticking with what you commit too. He learned to love to climb rocks, kayaked, and explored nature throughout the world in different areas. He opened up about how yoga helped him and he grew in his flexibility.
It was crazy in seeing the photos through the book and how he did all sorts of wild adventures. It was interesting to also see how flexibility he was and his body was in some weird positions that I personally couldn’t do. There are tons of beautiful photography that really helped the book along. It was very eye opening also to read about his lost and how it helped him to overcome his own personal loss and grief. He encouraged readers to live their lives in nature and to seek the light. It doesn’t have to be extreme adventures like he has done. It could help us in our own thinking and to refocus. I liked how he enclosed small poems in each chapter to teach us lessons. I would recommend this awesome book to anyone who is ready to learn more about his breathing method and to fully embrace true living.
“I received this book free from Sounds True for my honest review.”
As someone familiar with Wim Hof’s work and inspired by his approach to resilience and transformation, I was excited to dive into Exposure. The man himself is undeniably fascinating, driven, unique, and deeply committed to challenging what we believe the human body and mind are capable of. His message about living fully, embracing discomfort, and tapping into our inner strength is one that is hard to no admire.
That said, the book left me a little disappointed. While the photographs are striking and certainly offer an intimate look into Hof’s life, I found myself wanting some more reflection, context, and storytelling to match the power of the images and the boldness of Hof’s life.
Still, credit where it’s due: Hof’s determination and unapologetic way of living are inspiring, and Exposure might appeal to those already familiar with his story who want a more visual companion piece. It’s a unique tribute, but not quite the in-depth exploration I was hoping for.
Thanks to Sounds True Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!