Breathing is a fundamental and automatic process that we often take for granted. It’s something we do without even thinking about it, but did you know that the way we breathe can significantly impact our mental health? In his book “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art,” James Nestor explores the importance of breathing and how it can improve our overall well-being.
The Lost Art of Breathing
The way we breathe can impact our mental health in many ways. For example, shallow breathing can lead to increased levels of anxiety and stress. When we take shallow breaths, we aren’t getting enough oxygen to our brain and body, which can cause us to feel more tense and on edge. On the other hand, deep breathing can help to calm our nervous system and reduce stress levels.
Nestor explains that many of us have lost touch with the art of breathing, and we’re not breathing correctly. We’ve become accustomed to breathing in a way that’s not optimal for our health. For example, we tend to breathe through our mouths rather than our noses, which can lead to dry mouth, bad breath, and even snoring.
Moreover, Nestor highlights that our modern lifestyle has made us breathe less effectively. Our sedentary lifestyles, poor posture, and increased exposure to pollution and toxins have all contributed to the way we breathe. By relearning how to breathe correctly, we can improve our overall health and well-being, including our mental health.
Breathing Techniques for Better Health
One breathing technique that can help lower anxiety and improve mood is called “box breathing.” This involves taking a deep breath in through your nose for four seconds, holding your breath for four seconds, exhaling through your nose for four seconds, and holding your breath again for four seconds before repeating the process. This technique has been shown to calm the nervous system and reduce stress levels, making it a helpful tool for managing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
A technique Nestor discusses is nasal breathing, which involves breathing in and out through your nose rather than your mouth. Nasal breathing has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including improving lung function and reducing the risk of respiratory infections. It also helps to filter out toxins and pollutants, leading to better overall health. Nestor also suggests “alternate nostril breathing” in which you cover one nostril while breathing in, then breathe out through the opposite nostril, alternating sides as you go.
In conclusion, the way we breathe can significantly impact our mental health. By relearning how to breathe correctly and incorporating techniques like box breathing and nasal breathing into our daily lives, we can improve our overall well-being. “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” by James Nestor is an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn more about the importance of breathing and how it can positively impact our mental health.