Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art is a book written by James Nestor, an American journalist and author. The book explores the science behind breathing and how it affects our overall health and well-being. Nestor delves into the history of breathing, from ancient practices to modern-day techniques, and how they can be used to improve our lives. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different aspect of breathing.
Part 1: The Lost Art of Breathing
In the first part of the book, Nestor introduces the concept of the lost art of breathing. He explains how, over time, humans have lost the ability to breathe properly due to the stresses of modern life. Nestor argues that by relearning how to breathe, we can improve our overall health and well-being. He also explores the history of breathing, from ancient practices like pranayama to modern-day techniques like the Wim Hof method.
Part 2: The Science of Breathing
In the second part of the book, Nestor delves into the science behind breathing. He explains how the body uses oxygen to create energy and how the breathing muscles work. Nestor also explores how breathing affects the nervous system and how it can be used to reduce stress and anxiety. He also discusses the benefits of breathing exercises, including improved cardiovascular health and increased mental clarity.
Part 3: The Art of Breathing
In the third part of the book, Nestor focuses on the art of breathing. He explains how breathing can be used to improve our lives in a variety of ways, including reducing stress, improving sleep, and increasing focus. Nestor also explores the benefits of breathing exercises, including improved cardiovascular health and increased mental clarity. He also discusses the benefits of breathing exercises for athletes, including improved performance and reduced injury risk.
Conclusion
Overall, Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art is a fascinating exploration of the science behind breathing and how it affects our overall health and well-being. Nestor’s writing is engaging and informative, and he provides readers with a wealth of information on the benefits of proper breathing. Whether you’re looking to improve your overall health or simply looking for a way to reduce stress and anxiety, Breath is a must-read.