The author of a bestselling book on breathing had to release it early due to financial constraints and the Covid-19 pandemic. James Nestor's book "Breath" became a massive hit after being published in 2020, selling over 3 million copies worldwide.
At the time of writing his book, Nestor was stressed about meeting his deadline and worried that he might have wasted money on unnecessary research. However, the Covid-19 pandemic forced him to delay publication, which ultimately led to its success. Despite his initial doubts, the book's popularity soared as people turned to breathing exercises during the pandemic.
Nestor's interest in breath work began with a doctor's suggestion after he was diagnosed with recurring respiratory problems in San Francisco. He joined a group practicing Sudarshan Kriya, a rhythmic breathing technique that generated energy. The experience was "absolutely revelatory," and it changed his life. Nestor has since become an advocate for slow, deep breathing as a way to improve physical and mental well-being.
Nestor believes that breathing is often overlooked in favor of more conventional health practices like diet, exercise, and sleep. He argues that good breathing can be achieved by focusing on belly breathing rather than chest breathing. The author also explores the effects of processed foods on modern human anatomy, including crooked teeth and narrow airways.
The book features interviews with unusual individuals who have developed unconventional methods for improving respiratory health. One example is Mike Mew, a social media star who has gained millions of followers by promoting "mewing," a technique that involves sticking the tongue to the upper palate to improve face shape. However, his claims have been disputed, and he was recently suspended from the dentists' register.
Nestor acknowledges that some breathwork practitioners may be seen as fringe figures, but he believes that their methods can be effective when approached in a scientific and evidence-based manner. The author emphasizes the importance of listening to the body's natural rhythms and allowing it to function at its best.
At the time of writing his book, Nestor was stressed about meeting his deadline and worried that he might have wasted money on unnecessary research. However, the Covid-19 pandemic forced him to delay publication, which ultimately led to its success. Despite his initial doubts, the book's popularity soared as people turned to breathing exercises during the pandemic.
Nestor's interest in breath work began with a doctor's suggestion after he was diagnosed with recurring respiratory problems in San Francisco. He joined a group practicing Sudarshan Kriya, a rhythmic breathing technique that generated energy. The experience was "absolutely revelatory," and it changed his life. Nestor has since become an advocate for slow, deep breathing as a way to improve physical and mental well-being.
Nestor believes that breathing is often overlooked in favor of more conventional health practices like diet, exercise, and sleep. He argues that good breathing can be achieved by focusing on belly breathing rather than chest breathing. The author also explores the effects of processed foods on modern human anatomy, including crooked teeth and narrow airways.
The book features interviews with unusual individuals who have developed unconventional methods for improving respiratory health. One example is Mike Mew, a social media star who has gained millions of followers by promoting "mewing," a technique that involves sticking the tongue to the upper palate to improve face shape. However, his claims have been disputed, and he was recently suspended from the dentists' register.
Nestor acknowledges that some breathwork practitioners may be seen as fringe figures, but he believes that their methods can be effective when approached in a scientific and evidence-based manner. The author emphasizes the importance of listening to the body's natural rhythms and allowing it to function at its best.