“Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” by James Nestor explores the profound impact of breathing on our health and well-being. Here’s a detailed summary and some reviews:

Summary

James Nestor’s book delves into the science and history of breathing, highlighting how modern lifestyles have negatively impacted our breathing patterns and overall health. The book is divided into three parts:

1. Experimentation: Nestor and a friend conduct an experiment where they breathe exclusively through their mouths for 20 days, resulting in significant health deterioration. This part emphasizes the importance of nasal breathing.
2. Nasal Breathing Benefits: Nestor discusses the mechanics of nasal breathing, including the benefits of inhaling slowly, exhaling fully, and breathing less. He also highlights the importance of hard chewing and proper posture.
3. Advanced Techniques: The final part presents advanced breathing techniques that require dedicated practice. Nestor explains how these techniques can harness the full potential of nasal breathing for improved health and performance¹².

Key Lessons

• Nose Breathing Over Mouth Breathing: Nestor emphasizes that nasal breathing is crucial for filtering, humidifying, and regulating the air we take in. It also helps in the release of nitric oxide, which has antibacterial properties and aids oxygen absorption².
• Ancient Techniques: The book explores ancient breathing practices from various cultures, such as Pranayama and the “Jesus Prayer,” and their physiological benefits².
• Health Impacts: Nestor argues that improper breathing can lead to chronic illnesses like asthma, anxiety, and ADHD. By relearning proper breathing techniques, we can enhance our physical and mental health¹.

Reviews

• SuperSummary: The book is praised for its comprehensive approach, combining journalism with studies in anthropology, biochemistry, and pulmonology. It has been a bestseller and translated into multiple languages¹.
• BooksThatSlay: Reviewers highlight the book’s ability to uncover the secrets of ancient breathing practices and their modern relevance. They appreciate Nestor’s investigative approach and personal experimentation².
• Blinkist: The book is noted for its practical solutions to improve breathing and optimize physical and mental well-being5.

Overall, “Breath” is a fascinating read that merges scientific journalism with self-help, advocating for the transformative power of proper breathing techniques.

Source:
(1) Breath Summary and Study Guide | SuperSummary. https://www.supersummary.com/breath-james-nestor/summary/.
(2) Breath by James Nestor Summary and Key Lessons – BooksThatSlay. https://booksthatslay.com/breath-by-james-nestor-summary/.
(3) Breath Summary of Key Ideas and Review | James Nestor – Blinkist. https://www.blinkist.com/en/books/breath-en.
(4) Book Summary: Breath by James Nestor – Hustle Escape. https://www.hustleescape.com/book-summary-breath-james-nestor/.
(5) Book Summary Breath , by James Nestor – Shortform. https://www.shortform.com/summary/breath-summary-james-nestor.
(6) Breath Summary Review PDF | James Nestor – StoryShots. https://www.getstoryshots.com/books/breath-summary/.
(7) goodreads.com. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48890486-breath.