As discussed in my last post, I described my passion for the Wim Hof Method and spoke about what makes it a relevant media niche. This week, I will be mapping this niche through a visual map, talking about the best ways to promote it, better defining the method and investigating all the different aspects I can incorporate into my Ethnographic research.

Below I have attached my mind map:

There are many ways to make the Wim Hof Method more known in the media, and its popularity is only going to increase. Additionally, there are still many ways to help this method become even more popular.

Since the method is already active on most platforms, the mind map I’ve provided suggests ideas and thoughts on how to promote the method and create interesting content. The map breaks down different social platforms and offers potential content ideas under each. The main sections of the map include:

• Instagram
• Tik Tok
• Music  
• Blogs
• Apps

Ethnographic research is known to, “observe and interact with a study’s participants in their real-life environment” (Spotless, 2023). Hence, while I will be practising this method every day by actively doing it, I can take up the perspective from an audience point of view as well, and determine new ways to interact with them as I do the method each day.

After drawing my map, I’ve concluded that the best media platforms to use are:

• Instagram: Instagram’s visual nature is ideal for sharing short video clips, stories, and images related to the WHM. Posting step-by-step guides, motivational quotes, and before-and-after transformations.

• Tik Tok: Through short, attention-grabbing videos that showcase the Wim Hof Method techniques, such as the breathing exercises or cold exposure whilst also engaging visuals and captions to explain the process in a concise and relatable manner.

• Wellness Apps: Partner with existing wellness apps to offer specialized content, guided sessions, and challenges related to the WHM.

• Blogs: Having a dedicated website or blog with detailed articles, guides and personal experiences. This could cover various aspects from history to practical tips for beginners.

Problematising my niche involves critically analysing potential challenges and limitations, and there are a few that should be considered with the Wim Hof method. Some thought-provoking questions could include:

• How can I address scepticism and ensure that the scientific foundation of the Wim Hof Method is accurately portrayed in the media content? Are there any conflicting studies or opinions that need to be discussed?

• What are the potential health risks associated with practising the WHM? How can I emphasize the importance of moderation and proper guidance, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions?

• How can I make the WHM accessible to a diverse audience, including those with physical limitations or varying levels of fitness? What modifications or alternative practices could I suggest?

Being a marketing student, spreading the word about this method on different platforms can give me useful skills and experience for my future career. After all, the main aim of any marketer is to get people’s attention, and that’s what I’m trying to do here.

References:

UCL. 2023. Anthropology and ethnography | Why We Post – UCL – University College London. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/why-we-post/about-us/what-is-anthropology. [Accessed 17 August 2023].

Spotless. 2023. Ethnographic Research: What is it & How to Use It? | Spotless. [ONLINE] Available at: https://www.spotless.co.uk/insights/ethnography-when-and-how/. [Accessed 17 August 2023].