Understanding the Breathing Paradox

Breathing is an automatic process that occurs approximately 15 times each minute, totaling around 900 breaths per hour, 21,600 daily, and about 8 million annually. Despite this, many individuals struggle to breathe correctly.

Research has shown that consuming less food can lead to improved health and increased lifespan. Similarly, studies led by Patrick McKeown suggest that breathing less frequently may also contribute to longevity: the more we inhale, the closer we come to our demise.

It is well-documented that all animals, including humans, have a finite number of heartbeats. Once these are exhausted, life ceases. For instance, a rabbit with a heart rate of 130 to 325 beats per minute lives about 8 years, whereas a turtle, with only 6 beats per minute, can survive for 200 years.

Given that heart rate closely correlates with breathing rate, it’s apparent that organisms have a limited amount of breathable air, measured in liters, before life ends. Collaborators of Patrick McKeown have emphasized the vital role of carbon dioxide (CO2) in respiration.

In essence, when we breathe rapidly or through our mouths, we significantly reduce our blood's carbon dioxide levels. While this might seem harmless, CO2 is crucial for releasing oxygen from red blood cells to body tissues. A lack of sufficient CO2 leads to an abundance of oxygen that our bodies cannot utilize, creating a detrimental cycle of increased breathing.

To enhance our health, we should aim for controlled breathing through our noses, keeping our mouths closed and tongues resting comfortably on the roof of our mouths. This practice can help restore CO2 levels, balance vital parameters, and importantly, reduce our breathing rate, leading to a longer life.

What are the implications of habitual mouth breathing? While breathing through the mouth for a day may not be detrimental, making it a long-term habit can have serious consequences: insufficient CO2 levels can decrease oxygen, creating an acidic environment conducive to cancer development.

Mouth breathing can also dry out the mucous membranes, increasing the risk of viral and bacterial infections, leading to respiratory issues and lung infections.

Furthermore, it can result in snoring, which negatively affects sleep quality not only for the individual but also for those nearby.

Air passing through the mouth can dry out saliva, which normally helps protect teeth from decay.

By being mindful of your daily breathing patterns, you can improve your overall health and athletic performance.

My Books:

Brewed for Wellness

Green Feast: Vegan Delights for Every Palate

The Science Behind Breathing and Health

This video explores the intriguing concept of why pure oxygen can be harmful, contrasting with the oxygen present in our atmosphere, and highlights the delicate balance necessary for health.

Understanding Breath-Holding and Its Risks

This video delves into the potential dangers of breath-holding, shedding light on how it can affect your body and health in the long run.