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In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in the art of breathing, largely fueled by the groundbreaking book "Breathe" by James Nestor and other influential researchers. This blog will delve into the transformative effects of nose breathing, the latest insights from the O+ podcast, "We’re Not Blowing Hot Air,” featuring Dr. Sarah Petrich, and the critical health benefits associated with the practice and eventual habit of nose breathing..
James Nestor's book "Breathe" has been a game-changer in raising awareness about the importance of proper breathing techniques. In his book, Nestor explores the science of breath, delving deep into the history and biology of breathing. He uncovers the hidden power of the nose and how it can impact our health, sleep and overall well-being. Nestor's work has ignited a global conversation about the significance of nose breathing, inspiring people to reconsider their breathing habits and taking action - such as taping their mouth shut at night - to shift their natural breathing pattern to that of a nose-breather.
Beyond James Nestor, there are other prominent researchers who have made significant contributions to our understanding of the most effective breathing:
Dr. Andrew Weil is a renowned physician and author who has written extensively on the topic of breath and its connection to health and healing. His book "Spontaneous Healing" explores the power of breath in supporting the body's natural healing processes. Dr. Weil's work has helped countless individuals harness the benefits of conscious breathing.
Drs. Patricia Gerbarg and Richard Brown are experts in the field of mind-body medicine and have authored books like "The Healing Power of the Breath." They emphasize the importance of controlled, rhythmic breathing in reducing stress, anxiety, and improving overall mental and physical health.
Dr. Konstantin Buteyko, a Russian physician, developed the Buteyko Breathing Method, which focuses on nasal breathing and reducing over-breathing. His work has been instrumental in helping individuals with conditions such as asthma, allergies, and anxiety by retraining their breathing patterns.
Oxygen Plus’s podcast, ‘We’re Not Blowing Hot Air,’ often features experts who discuss the science and best techniques of healthy breathing. In a recent episode, we had the privilege of hosting Dr. Sarah Petrich, a highly-regarded physical therapist with certification in Postural Restoration & Pilates. She provides invaluable insights into the world of nose breathing. You can listen to the conversation between Dr. Petrich and some of the Oxygen Plus team here.
One of the key topics discussed on the O+ podcast with Dr. Sarah Petrich was the comparison between mouth breathing and nose breathing. Most people go about their daily lives unaware of the significant impact that their breathing habits have on their health.
Breathing through the mouth, especially during sleep, can lead to a multitude of issues, such as sleep apnea, snoring and decreased oxygen intake.
In contrast, nose breathing has been proven to be more efficient in filtering, humidifying, and warming the air before it reaches the lungs. This natural process ensures that the body receives the right amount of oxygen, reduces the risk of respiratory infections, and helps maintain proper oral posture. As shared in James Nester’s, ‘Breathe,’ people who regularly breathe through their nose report feeling more rested and having more vitality throughout the day compared to when they habitually breathed through their mouth. Let's explore the benefits of nose breathing in further detail.
One of the most profound benefits of nose breathing is the enhanced oxygenation it provides. Studies show nose breathing increases the concentration of nitric oxide in the blood, which improves oxygen delivery to cells and tissues. This, in turn, boosts energy levels and overall vitality.
Nose breathing has a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety levels. It stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which counteracts the fight-or-flight response, leading to a more peaceful state of mind.
Mouth breathing can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to conditions like snoring and sleep apnea. Nasal breathing during sleep ensures a more restful and rejuvenating slumber. Using nose breathing strips or tapes at night can help maintain this habit.
Athletes can benefit greatly from nose breathing, as it optimizes oxygen intake and improves endurance. Running or engaging in strenuous activities while nose breathing can lead to better performance and reduced fatigue.
Now that we've highlighted the critical health benefits of nose breathing, let's look into some strategies you can implement in your daily life to become a better nose breather:
Nose breathing strips can help improve airflow and keep your nasal passages open during sleep. These strips are easy to apply and can make a significant difference in your quality of sleep.
Engage in daily nose breathing exercises to strengthen your nasal passages and improve your breathing capacity. Simple exercises like alternate nostril breathing and deep diaphragmatic breathing can be highly effective.
Incorporate reminders throughout your day to check your breathing habits. Whether it's a sticky note on your computer or a smartphone app, these reminders can help you stay mindful of the way you breathe.
Consider taping your mouth shut during sleep as a temporary measure to encourage nose breathing. Ensure you use a safe, breathable tape designed for this purpose.
Another innovative option is to use a chin holder or chin strap. This device helps keep your mouth closed during sleep, encouraging you to breathe through your nose naturally. It can be a valuable tool in your journey to becoming a better nose breather.
To embark on your journey towards better health through nose breathing, Oxygen Plus (O+) is here to help you go farther with effective breathing habits, so you think, feel and perform your best. With convenient, effective oxygen products in-hand, you can breathe pure oxygen at key moments and experience the transformative effects. O+’s lightweight, portable canisters come in various sizes, making pure oxygen a perfect help for any oxygen-draining situation. At home or on the go, O+ oxygen works by restoring your body’s oxygen levels to healthy, normal levels — naturally and instantly. The active ingredient is pure oxygen that concentrates to more than five times the amount of oxygen found in unpolluted, everyday air. When you breathe O+ to top off depleted oxygen levels, you can experience the benefits of supplemental oxygen, which include:
In conclusion, the recent buzz around the best way to breathe has shed light on the many important benefits of nose breathing. By making simple lifestyle changes and utilizing supportive products like O+, you can harness the power of nose breathing to enhance your health and well-being. Try to make the switch to nose breathing today and unlock its transformative effects on your life. Oh yeah.
