– WordPress Daily Writing Prompt #7 –

I’m constantly learning something, so the last thing I learned is probably neither revelatory nor interesting.

Instead, I’ll talk about the last truly impactful thing I learned about: the simple power of breathing.

I never thought much of it; a breath is a breath, right? Well, it turns out that’s not entirely accurate. The way we breathe can definitively impact our health and quality of life. And this isn’t some sensationalist bullshit. It’s rooted in science.

Here are the basics of what you need to know:

• Nasal breathing (as opposed to mouthbreathing) is essential for regulating airflow, filtering contaminants, and reducing airway resistance.
• Chronic mouth breathing contributes to airway instability, sleep-disordered breathing, and dental malocclusion.
• Nasal breathing can increase nitric oxide production and improve circulation. It may also help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular markers.

Here are a few interesting “extras”:

• The position of your tongue matters; when resting against the roof of the mouth during nasal breathing, it helps stabilize the upper jaw and maintain proper airway space.
• Airway dysfunction during development can influence craniofacial morphology, supporting the theory that breathing patterns affect facial structure.
• Ancient human skulls rarely show the dental crowding common today, suggesting modern diet and airway habits may influence jaw development.  

Since listening to a podcast with breathing expert James Nestor (linked below) and implementing some of the techniques mentioned—as well as others I found through additional research—I’ve noticed improvements in my mental clarity, energy levels, and physical capabilities.

I used to breathe through my mouth when I ran on the treadmill at the gym. Now I breathe entirely through my nose, and the exercise that used to bring me fatigue is now nearly effortless.

I have yet to read Nestor’s book, but it’s next up on my reading list. Maybe I’ll write a fleshed-out research article when I get the chance. Is that something you would find helpful or interesting?

If you have a spare couple of hours or need something to listen to during your next walk, I highly recommend giving the podcast a shot. With little effort, you might reframe how you think about breathing.

Sometimes the smallest changes can make the biggest difference.