For all of us, and especially those that suffer from Exercise Induced Asthma, optimal oxygenation is essential to our health and overall wellbeing. Every person requires fresh air, yet we all tend to forget that there is the best way to do so; through the nose. Nose breathing is key to optimizing both proper oxygenation and relaxation and works to prevent hyperventilation.
When we breathe through our mouths, and our breathing becomes out of balance, we are promoting a state of vasoconstriction (a tightening of the venous circulation) as opposed to the preferred and needed vasodilation (an elongation and widening of veins which promote the best vascularization). Furthermore, when we breathe through our mouths and disallow optimal oxygenation we actually create stress within the body which increases both our adrenaline and cortisol levels. Compounding matters, our body responds to the stress cascade by producing excessive histamines which make our body more susceptible to foreign bodies and allergens. All of which could be prevented with a switch from mouth breathing to nasal breathing.
Nose breathing promotes an increase in energy, lessens stress and improves immune function. Nasal breathing accelerates the regeneration of tissues as it promotes a deep and full body oxygenation required for optimal tissue repair and healing. Nasal breathing also stimulates the nervous system, decreases fatigue, massages the internal organs, calms the parasympathetic nervous system and depending on technique can work to balance the brain hemispheres. Breathing through the nose truly improves overall bodily functioning from the head to the toes. Take the time to be thoughtful about your breath and start a practice of nasal breathing today. With practice, routinely begins and with a followed routine, one becomes habituated. You can do this and your body deserves the best breath.
“He who breathes most air lives most life.”
– Elizabeth Barrett Browning
