Benefits of Nose Breathing

14th November, 2009 - Posted by L. John Mason -

An Article by Rodger Ruge of HeroTalk

“Breathing through the mouth tends to inflate only the upper lobes of the lungs, which are connected to the sympathetic nerve fibers, the branch of the nervous system that activates the flight or fight response.  When you switch to nose breathing, you inflate the entire lungs, including the lower lobes, which are connected to the parasympathetic branch of the nervous system, the branch that calms the body, slows the heart rate, and relaxes the mind”.

Peg Jordan – “The Fitness Instinct”

1.    Incoming air to lungs is warmed to 95 degrees – optimal temperature.

2.    The incoming air is moisturized and this can add as much as 1 liter of water to your internal environment (you will lose less water to breathing with the mouth).

3.    The nose is a very efficient filter which helps to secrete mucous,  prevent coughing and help to filter debris from the environment.

4.    Air moving through the nose clears stagnating debris.

5.    Incoming air triggers the release of anti-bacterial molecules which help to clean the air and increase the function of the immune system.

6.    Gives you the ability to enhance your sense of smell – survival tool!

7.    Incoming air into the sphenoid sinuses helps to cool the pituitary gland which helps to regulate body temperature.

8.    Aids in keep the nasal passages open which allows light to reach the pituitary gland through the sphenoid sinus and this helps regulate sleeping patterns.

9.    Keeps the sinus membranes lubricated which will reduce the chance of sinus infections, colds and flu’s.

10. Children can stimulate the growth of the sinuses from the movement of air. The sinuses do not start growing until about the age of 4.

11. Allows excess tears to have a clear passageway for drainage.

12. Facilitates the production of nitric oxide, which is a bronchodilator and sterilizes the air in the sinuses on the way to the lungs.

13. Reduces the volume of C02 released during exhalation. CO2 helps to reduce constriction in the airways and blood vessels and facilitates the release of oxygen from the red blood cells by helping to balance the Ph of the blood.

14. Aids in keeping the bodies energetic systems balanced and centered

15. Aids in keeping the mind calm by reducing anxiety – especially during crisis.

16. Facilitates deeper meditation and quieting of the mind.

17. Reduces and / or eliminates snoring.

18. Activates the production of immunoglobulins to strengthen the immune system.

19. Helps air to contact the olfactory nerves which in term stimulates your brain. 

20. Enhances the ability to breathe easily and efficiently.

**The Average person breaths approximately 20,000 times a day!  Since we must breathe to survive, do it in a way that optimizes your physical and mental health!