Breath
by James Nestor
Nestor's investigation into breathing, from ancient practices to modern labs and his own experiments with mouth-taping and nasal breathing, is entertaining and persuasive. The core recommendations are simple: breathe through the nose, slowly, less. Some claims outrun the evidence; the basic practices are harmless and often helpful.
Read it if…
you want an engaging introduction to breathing as a health and focus tool.
Skip it if…
you want strict science; the book is journalism and sometimes enthusiastic.
Three things you will actually use
- Nose, not mouth.
- Slow down to about six breaths a minute when stressed.
- Exhale fully; most people do not.
Do this first
For five minutes today, breathe in for five and a half seconds and out for five and a half, through the nose.
Our verdict
Fun, informative and slightly overstated; the practices are worth trying.
Compare with other Health books
Rest
Alex Soojung-Kim Pang · Health
Persuasive and civilized; a case for working less and better.
CLICK TO SEE
Burnout
Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski · Health
Warm, funny and scientifically grounded; an important book on stress.
CLICK TO SEE
The Comfort Crisis
Michael Easter · Health
Engaging and bracing; a good push for the too-comfortable.
CLICK TO SEEBrowse all Health book reviews or get the free Reality Code Cheat Sheet.
As an Amazon Associate, WisdomDeck earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked “Click to see” go to Amazon. We are not paid for opinions, prices and availability are not shown here and change on Amazon, and we never see your purchase details. Nothing here is medical, legal or financial advice.