Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art
A Washington Post Notable Nonfiction Book of 2020
Named a Best Book of 2020 by NPR
“A fascinating scientific, cultural, spiritual and evolutionary history of the way humans breathe—and how we’ve all been doing it wrong for a long, long time.” —Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Big Magic and Eat Pray Love
No matter what you eat, how much you exercise, how skinny or young or wise you are, none of it matters if you’re not breathing properly.
There is nothing more essential to our health and well-being than breathing: take air in, let it out, repeat twenty-five thousand times a day. Yet, as a species, humans have lost the ability to breathe correctly, with grave consequences.
Journalist James Nestor travels the world to figure out what went wrong and how to fix it. The answers aren’t found in pulmonology labs, as we might expect, but in the muddy digs of ancient burial sites, secret Soviet facilities, New Jersey choir schools, and the smoggy streets of São Paulo. Nestor tracks down men and women exploring the hidden science behind ancient breathing practices like Pranayama, Sudarshan Kriya, and Tummo and teams up with pulmonary tinkerers to scientifically test long-held beliefs about how we breathe.
Modern research is showing us that making even slight adjustments to the way we inhale and exhale can jump-start athletic performance; rejuvenate internal organs; halt snoring, asthma, and autoimmune disease; and even straighten scoliotic spines. None of this should be possible, and yet it is.
Drawing on thousands of years of medical texts and recent cutting-edge studies in pulmonology, psychology, biochemistry, and human physiology, Breath turns the conventional wisdom of what we thought we knew about our most basic biological function on its head. You will never breathe the same again.
Dive into the World of Breath: Uncover the Hidden Power of Your Lungs with James Nestor's Book
In his groundbreaking book, "Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art," James Nestor embarks on an illuminating journey into the realm of respiration, shedding light on the profound impact breathing techniques can have on our physical and mental well-being. With a captivating blend of scientific research, personal anecdotes, and historical insights, Nestor unveils the secrets of optimizing breath to enhance performance, improve health, and cultivate a sense of inner peace.
Unravel the Forgotten Art of Breathing
In an era dominated by technology and fast-paced living, we have neglected the art of proper breathing. Nestor highlights the detrimental effects of shallow, rapid breathing on our overall health, leading to a range of ailments, including stress, anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain. Through meticulously researched findings, he emphasizes the importance of diaphragmatic breathing, a technique that engages the diaphragm, promotes deep breaths, and maximizes oxygen intake.
Harness the Power of Breath for Improved Performance
Athletes, musicians, and performers of all kinds can unlock new levels of excellence through optimized breathing practices. Nestor delves into the science behind how breath control can enhance athletic endurance, vocal power, and cognitive function. By mastering specific breathing techniques, individuals can tap into untapped reserves of energy, focus, and mental clarity, propelling them towards peak performance.
Discover Breath's Healing Potential
Beyond its impact on physical and mental performance, Nestor unveils the therapeutic potential of conscious breathing. He explores how specific breathing exercises can alleviate stress, reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and even combat chronic conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By understanding the intricate connection between breath and health, readers can incorporate breathing techniques into their daily routines to promote healing and overall well-being.
Embark on a Journey to Optimal Breathing
"Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art" is an essential guide for anyone seeking to harness the transformative power of breathing. With James Nestor's expert guidance, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of the science of breath, empowering them to make informed choices about their breathing habits. Whether you're an athlete, a musician, a healthcare professional, or simply someone seeking to improve their health and well-being, this book offers a wealth of knowledge and practical techniques to enhance your life through the art of conscious breathing.
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