Yoga is a system of physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation to promote physical and emotional well-being. | Pixabay.com
Yoga is a system of physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation to promote physical and emotional well-being. | Pixabay.com
• Breathing through the nose is a common practice in yoga, thanks to its many benefits.
• Physicians also recommend breathing through the nose, as it provides a natural filter.
• Breathing through the mouth can lead to poor oral health and bad breath.
Dr. Anthony Sanders of Indianapolis Sinus Center is echoing the sentiments of yoga practitioners with his recommendation that patients breathe through their nose, rather than their mouth.
KTM Yoga reports that, although it is advised people should breathe through their noses most of the time, as much as 60% of adults often breathe through their mouths.
“Mouth breathing is not good,” Sanders told the Columbus Standard. “It can affect sleep quality. For instance, you're probably more likely to have sleep apnea, which is a major problem in its own right. But I think the real point is, you don't have to live with that anymore, and the solutions for it have gotten so much more acceptable than what they were once upon a time.”
Yogis have studied the role of breathing for centuries, with many yoga practices focusing on breathing through nose, as opposed to the mouth, according to UK-based company Heather Yoga. In addition to hair and mucus within the nose acting as filters that trap bacteria and dust, KTM Yoga states that nasal breathing also increases oxygen intake and boosts brain activity. Another benefit of breathing through the nose is that it helps to slow airflow, which widens blood vessels and slows the heart rate, leading to a feeling of calm.
People who suffer from allergies or chronic sinus problems are more likely to breathe through their mouths, but mouth breathing can lead to oral health issues, according to McCarl Dental Group. Mouth breathing dries up saliva, allowing bacteria and plaque to build up on the teeth, which can cause cavities, gum disease and chronic bad breath. Regularly breathing through the mouth can also, over time, lead to strained jaw joints, snoring, sleep apnea, enlarged tonsils and a higher risk for airway disorders, such as asthma.
If you’re interested in learning more about diagnosing sinus problems or allergies, please take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz.
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