Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art

Breathing is something we all do - but do you know how it has changed over the centuries? I picked up the book Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor and found it fascinating. It explores the history of breathing, and how what we eat has affected the way we breathe. It explores how best to breathe (and how best not to - mouth breathing is not desirable!). It was fascinating to learn how those deeper breaths we take allow us to access certain receptors in our lungs which release feel good chemicals - so it really does help us feel better if we breathe deeply. The book also scientifically shows why shallow breathing is not good for us (except in short term ways to escape danger). A fascinating read with lots to ponder on.