Breath

Synopsis

THE PHENOMENAL INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER - OVER 2 MILLION COPIES SOLD WORLDWIDE

AS HEARD ON STEVEN BARTLETT'S 'DIARY OF A CEO'

'Who would have thought something as simple as changing the way we breathe could be so revolutionary for our health, from snoring to allergies to immunity? A fascinating book, full of dazzling revelations' Dr Rangan Chatterjee

There is nothing more essential to our health and wellbeing than breathing: take air in, let it out, repeat 25,000 times a day. Yet, as a species, humans have lost the ability to breathe correctly, with grave consequences. In Breath, journalist James Nestor travels the world to discover the hidden science behind ancient breathing practices to figure out what went wrong and how to fix it.
Modern research is showing us that making even slight adjustments to the way we inhale and exhale can:

- improve our exercise techniques
- restore healthy sleep patterns and minimise snoring
- halt allergies, asthma and even autoimmune disease

Drawing on thousands of years of ancient wisdom and cutting-edge studies, Breath is full of revelations, turning what we thought we knew about our most basic biological function on its head.

You will never breathe the same again.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Science of Breath

This chapter explores the physiological and biochemical processes of respiration. It explains the anatomy of the respiratory system, the exchange of gases in the lungs, and the role of oxygen and carbon dioxide in cellular metabolism.

Example: During exercise, the body's demand for oxygen increases. This triggers an increase in breathing rate and depth, allowing more oxygen to enter the bloodstream and deliver it to muscles.

Chapter 2: The Power of Breath

This chapter emphasizes the importance of proper breathing techniques for overall health and well-being. It introduces various breathing exercises, such as diaphragmatic breathing and pranayama, and explains their benefits for reducing stress, improving sleep, and enhancing energy levels.

Example: A study published in the journal "Psychoneuroendocrinology" found that diaphragmatic breathing reduced anxiety and stress levels in participants, as indicated by decreased levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.

Chapter 3: The Mind-Body Connection

This chapter explores the interplay between breath and the mind. It explains how breathing patterns can influence emotional states, and how mindfulness and meditation practices can improve breath awareness and foster emotional regulation.

Example: In the mindfulness technique of body scan meditation, individuals focus on their breath and body sensations, bringing awareness to the present moment and reducing anxiety and stress.

Chapter 4: Breath in Health and Disease

This chapter discusses the role of breath in various health conditions. It explains how breathing exercise can help manage cardiovascular diseases, respiratory disorders, and chronic pain.

Example: A study published in the journal "Chest" found that breathing exercises improved lung function and reduced shortness of breath in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Chapter 5: Breathing for Performance

This chapter focuses on the importance of breathing techniques for athletes and performers. It explains how optimizing breath can improve endurance, focus, and recovery.

Example: In the sport of swimming, efficient breathing techniques such as bilateral breathing allow swimmers to maintain a steady rhythm and maximize oxygen intake, improving performance and endurance.

Chapter 6: Living a Breath-Centered Life

This final chapter emphasizes the practical applications of breath awareness in daily life. It provides tips for incorporating breathing exercises into routines, such as during commute, mealtimes, and before bed.

Example: Taking a few deep breaths before a stressful situation, such as a presentation or job interview, can help calm nerves and improve focus.