Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor is an informative and entertaining book that explores the importance of proper breathing techniques. The author delves into ancient practices and modern research to show how improving breathing can enhance health, athletic performance, and overall well-being. The book is practical, offering exercises that readers can start immediately, making it both educational and useful.
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor is a fascinating exploration of the often-overlooked art of breathing. The author combines personal anecdotes with scientific research to highlight how modern living has led us to breathe incorrectly, impacting our health negatively. Nestor travels the world to study ancient breathing techniques like Pranayama and Sudarshan Kriya, and introduces readers to 'Pulmonauts' who have harnessed the power of breathing to improve their lives. The book is not just a collection of facts but a practical guide with exercises that can be started right away. It covers a wide range of topics, from evolution and physics to medicine and physiology, making it both informative and engaging. The exercises, such as alternate nostril breathing and the 'perfect breath' technique, are easy to follow and can be practiced anywhere. The book is a quick read, blending narrative with science seamlessly, and leaves readers with valuable techniques to improve their breathing and overall well-being.
Quick quotes
The perfect breath is simple: Sitting upright, breathe in for about 5.5 seconds, then exhale for 5.5 seconds. That’s 5.5 breaths a minute for a total of about 5.5 liters of air.
It's a wide-ranging book covering evolution, physics, athletic endurance, medicine and physiology.
It’s the best of books and reading - not only will you learn something, you’ll pick up techniques that allow you to become better at breathing, something you might have thought you were doing correctly but this book will soon put you right.