Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art
Unlocking the secrets of ancient wisdom and modern science
In 2020, journalist James Nestor released Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, a book that has since captivated a global audience. Nestor explores how the seemingly mundane act of breathing can profoundly shape numerous aspects of human health — from athletic performance to mental well-being.
As a computer scientist and a researcher, I was immediately drawn to Nestor’s claims and sought to evaluate them in light of recent empirical studies. Below, I present my evidence-based reflections on what this book contributes to our understanding of human physiology and why it matters.
The Forgotten Art of Breathing
Breathing is something we do without thinking, but most of us are doing it wrong. James Nestor explains that many modern problems with breathing stem from changes in our diet and lifestyle. For instance, the shift to processed, soft foods means we chew less. This weakens our jaw muscles and leads to narrower airways. This in turn can make breathing harder and increase issues like snoring and sleep apnea.
Archaeologists have found that our ancestors had stronger jaws and wider nasal passages, which helped them breathe better. This is because they ate tougher…