How we breathe determines so much about our physical and mental health. We breathe all day, every day, so it’s important to make sure we’re doing it correctly! Breathing through your mouth can have a negative impact on your well-being while breathing through your nose has many positive, life-altering effects. It may seem straightforward to some, but learning exactly how nose breathing helps and why can motivate you to be more conscious about practicing it.
Curious to know if you're breathing your best? Click through to find out!
Nose breathing promotes deeper, diaphragmatic breathing which leads to relaxation and improved sleep quality. Additionally, nasal airflow helps regulate blood pressure and reduces snoring, contributing to a more restful night’s sleep.
Nose breathing might play a role in weight management as the deeper, more controlled breaths associated with nose breathing can promote feelings of satiety and potentially lead to reduced calorie intake.
During childhood, proper nasal breathing promotes healthy development of the jaw and facial bones.
You might need to use mouth breathing if you have nasal congestion, a deviated septum, or even small nostrils. However, aim to get healthy again soon so you can return to breathing properly through your nose.
Nose breathing helps maintain moisture in the oral cavity and minimizes the chances of a dry mouth environment. In a dry mouth, bacteria and cavities can grow. Saliva production is more consistent with nasal breathing which is crucial for neutralizing acids and protecting teeth.
Maintaining nasal breathing supports a balanced oral environment, reducing the risk of gum disease associated with mouth dryness and bacterial overgrowth. Proper moisture levels help protect gum tissues from inflammation and infection.
Next, let's explore several breathing exercises you can practice anywhere to help train you and your body to utilize nose breathing.
Pursed-lip breathing slows down your breathing rate, promoting more effective oxygen exchange and encouraging nose breathing. This technique helps keep airways open longer, facilitating better respiratory control and reduced shortness of breath.
The Buteyko method, which involves holding the out-breath, focuses on reducing hyperventilation and improving CO2 tolerance. It naturally encourages nose breathing. This technique helps retrain breathing patterns to optimize oxygen uptake and reduce respiratory-related issues.
Nose breathing can be positively influenced by several factors. Click through to explore what they are.
Humidifiers add moisture to the air, preventing congestion and nasal dryness which can lead to mouth breathing. Having a humid environment supports consistent nasal airflow and general comfort.
Sources: (NIH) (Healthline) (Harvard Health) (Winchester Dental) (Evergreen Life)
How nose breathing can change your entire life
Have you been breathing wrong?
LIFESTYLE Health
How we breathe determines so much about our physical and mental health. We breathe all day, every day, so it’s important to make sure we’re doing it correctly! Breathing through your mouth can have a negative impact on your well-being while breathing through your nose has many positive, life-altering effects. It may seem straightforward to some, but learning exactly how nose breathing helps and why can motivate you to be more conscious about practicing it.
Curious to know if you're breathing your best? Click through to find out!