We breathe around 20,000 times a day—but most of us are doing it wrong. And that could be feeding your stress, fatigue, or even digestive problems.
The Problem with Mouth Breathing
Breathing through your mouth (especially during sleep) can:
- Disrupt sleep quality
- Dry out your airways
- Increase anxiety
- Contribute to snoring and sleep apnea
Nasal breathing, on the other hand, filters air, regulates oxygen, and stimulates your vagus nerve—which calms the nervous system.
Signs You Might Be a Mouth Breather
- Waking up with a dry mouth
- Bad breath
- Frequent yawning or sighing
- Snoring or waking tired
How Breath Affects Chronic Conditions
Poor breathing mechanics have been linked to:
- Chronic fatigue
- Panic attacks
- Digestive dysfunction (due to vagus nerve dysregulation)
Breathing Hacks to Try
- Practice box breathing: Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4
- Tape your mouth at night: (Use micropore tape and consult a doctor first)
- Use nasal sprays or strips to improve airflow
- Try breathwork apps like Othership, Breathwrk, or Headspace
It’s Not Woo-Woo
Breathing better isn’t just for yogis. It’s a foundational pillar of health that can improve energy, focus, digestion, and calm.
