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Breathe Your Way to Better Health

Writer's picture: Matt McKinleyMatt McKinley

Breathing. It’s something we all do without thinking, yet how we breathe can make a world of difference in our health and fitness. Inspired by Patrick McKeown's insights in "Mouth Breather" and his other books on the topic, let’s explore how focusing on your breathing can transform your life.


The Power of Nasal Breathing


Nasal breathing is more than just a technique; it's a game-changer for your overall health and more. Here are a few of the benefits of breathing through your nose and why you should be doing it more often:

Filter, humidify, and regulate the temperature of the air you inhale

• Reduce stress

• Improve sleep

• Aid in fat loss

• Alleviate back and neck pain by promoting better posture and oxygen flow


Implementing LSD Breathing: Light, Slow, Deep

1. Light: Focus on gentle breaths. Imagine you're trying to breathe so quietly that you don't disturb a feather placed under your nose. This reduces stress and enhances relaxation.

2. Slow: Aim for fewer breaths per minute. Try inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 4, and exhaling for 6. This slows your heart rate and calms your mind.

3. Deep: Breathe deeply into your diaph



ragm, not just your chest (deep doesn’t mean big in this case). This increases oxygen intake and energy levels, helping you power through your day.


How You Can Practice

Throughout the Day: Practice nasal breathing during tasks like walking or sitting at your desk. It’s a simple way to stay calm and focused.

During Light Activity/Exercise: Maintain nasal breathing to enhance endurance and recovery. It might feel challenging at first, but your body will adapt, leading to improved performance.

Post-Exercise Recovery: After a workout, lay down for 2-3 minutes and practice nasal breathing to accelerate recovery and reduce muscle soreness.


Mouth Taping for Sleep

Mouth taping might sound odd, but it encourages nasal breathing during sleep, leading to better rest and reduced snoring. Simply use a small piece of medical tape to gently keep your lips closed at night. It sounds weird, but it works!


By incorporating these breathing techniques, you can reduce stress, enhance fat loss, alleviate pain, and improve sleep quality.



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