The Buteyko breathing exercises seem to have improved my health tremendously. I have experienced clear nasal passages, almost no colds, brighter skin, fewer seizures, and good digestion. It is amazing that using the nose for breathing as it was intended would improve health so much.
Why is Nose Breathing Important?
The main purpose of the nose is to help you breathe safely and efficiently. It filters out foreign particles like dust, allergens, and pollen. People who breathe through their noses are less likely to experience allergies and need to expel the foreign particles from their lungs.
The nose humidifies the inhaled air. It warms and moisturizes the air that you have breathed. The warmed air matches the body’s temperatures and makes it easier for the lungs to use.
While you are breathing through your nose, your body produces nitric oxide (NO). NO is a vasodilator that helps to widen the blood vessels. By widening the blood vessels, oxygen is better able to circulate through your body.
Mouth Breathing Risks
The mouth is designed more for eating and talking. Breathing through your mouth is associated with certain health risks. When you breathe through your mouth, you lose moisture and the mouth becomes dry. It increases the chances of inhaling unfiltered allergens and creating an allergic reaction.
Asthma, bad breath, tooth decay, and gingivitis are problems that are also associated with mouth breathing. Mouth breathing can impact your body’s oxygenation during sleep. Snoring and sleep apnea have been linked to mouth breathing as well.
The Health Benefits of Nasal Breathing
Nose breathing allows the body to function properly. The nose functions as it was designed. The main benefits of nasal breathing include the following:
- reduced exposure to dangerous allergens
- humidifies the inhaled air
- increases the airflow to arteries, nerves, and veins
- improves the oxygen uptake
- increases circulation
- strengthens the diaphragm
- reduces the risk of hay fever and seasonal allergies
- eliminates sleep apnea
- reduces the risk of snoring
- supports the proper formation of the mouth and teeth
- supports the immune system
- improved athletic performance
- reduced stress and anxiety
Patrick McKeown explains the health benefits of nasal breathing and the importance of breathing through the nose at all times.