top of page

Book Review: Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor

Christine Daecher, DO

Several years ago, when I was completing my education with the Institute for Functional Medicine, James Nestor's Breath was brought to my attention. I ordered a copy, probably read the book, and then gave my copy to a family member to read.


As a functional medicine internist, I'm always looking for ways to help my patients improve their health in simple, low-cost, effective ways. One of the most powerful tools we have at our disposal—yet one that is often overlooked—is our breath.



Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor



This book is perfect for anyone who struggles with stress, poor sleep, chronic health issues, or just wants to feel better overall. As someone who regularly sees patients with conditions like high blood pressure, anxiety, asthma, chronic sinusitis, and sleep apnea, I can tell you that Nestor’s insights are both scientifically backed and incredibly practical for everyday life. Here are a few highlights that I believe will make this book particularly interesting for my patients:


1. Always Breathe Through Your Nose


Nestor emphasizes the importance of breathing through your nose, not your mouth, and how this simple change can lead to better lung function, improved oxygen levels, increased nasal airspace, less sleep apnea, and even reduced anxiety. Many of my patients are surprised to learn that the way they breathe affects more than just their lungs—it can impact everything from their posture to their heart health. The book explores the multi-faceted importance of nasal breathing.


Tip: when exercising, if you only breathe through your nose, you will not get exercise-induced asthma.


2. Breathing Techniques for Stress Relief


We all know stress is a major factor in many chronic health conditions. Nestor delves into the science behind how deep, slow breathing can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping us “turn off” the stress response. This is especially valuable for patients who struggle with anxiety, high blood pressure, or insomnia. Nestor shares simple exercises—like the "box breath" and "slow deep breathing"—that can be practiced anywhere, anytime, to calm the mind and body. I often recommend breathing techniques to patients, and after reading Breath, you’ll have the tools to use them effectively.


3. The Connection Between Breathing and Sleep


Many of my patients suffer from poor sleep, and often, breathing is a key factor. Nestor explains how poor breathing habits—like shallow, rapid breaths or mouth breathing—can contribute to snoring, teeth grinding, sleep apnea, and disrupted rest. He offers valuable insights into how better breathing can improve sleep quality and help with conditions like sleep apnea, which many of my patients are unaware of until it negatively affects their health. The book even touches on practical steps you can take to start breathing better while you sleep.


4. A Holistic Approach to Better Health


What sets Breath apart is its holistic approach to well-being. Nestor argues that our modern lifestyle, with its focus on sedentary habits and chronic stress, has led many of us to breathe in inefficient, unhealthy ways. By re-learning how to breathe properly, we can improve our mental and physical health in ways that go beyond just getting more oxygen into our bodies. The book connects breathing to everything from improved digestion to enhanced athletic performance, and even facial structure—yes, it turns out breathing can shape our faces! For patients who are interested in natural ways to optimize health, this book is full of surprising, evidence-based tips.


5. Breathing Technique for Asthma


One of my favorite things I learned from the sport was the Buteyko method for stopping an asthma attack. As someone who suffers with asthma, I found this invaluable so much so that I personally wrote to James Nestor. You can imagine how thrilled I was to hear back from him. I was even more thrilled that earlier this year, I was invited to one of his breathing retreats in London, which, unfortunately, I could not attend. The Buteyko method was never taught to me or my colleagues in medical school or residency, despite being around for decades and having Grade B evidence of efficacy. In medicine, anything with grade A or B evidence is considered good evidence-based medicine.



Why You Should Read It


Sometimes, the simplest interventions are the most effective. What makes Breath even more appealing is how Nestor combines scientific research with personal anecdotes and easy-to-understand explanations. It’s not just for doctors or scientists—it’s written for anyone who wants to feel better and live healthier. It offers easy-to-follow exercises and practical advice that you can start using immediately. Whether you're a busy professional, a parent, or someone dealing with chronic health issues, you’ll find something valuable in this book.



8 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comentários


bottom of page