We naturally do most of our breathing through our nasal passages, which serve to heat, humidify and filter the air. Habitual mouth breathing on the other hand, is linked to a myriad of health issues including sleep disturbance, learning delay, tooth decay, bad breath and jaw disorders.
Tips for Nose-Breathing
- Start by becoming aware of your breathing patterns during the day – check in with yourself from time to time – set an alarm on your computer or phone to remind yourself
- Practice keeping your lips closed unless you are talking, eating or doing strenuous exercise
- If you snore, wake up with a dry mouth or nasal congestion, consider taping your mouth shut with a light tape such as micropore tape. It’s easily removed and not nearly as scary as it sounds!
- When breathing through your nose, breathe slower than you think you need to. Pause for a few seconds at full expiration. Breathe quietly right down to your diaphragm.
Switching to nose breathing is one of the simplest yet most profound thing you can do for your health. Close your mouth and smell the roses!
