What are the advantages of nose breathing vs. What are the advantages of mouth breathing?
It is very common to breathe without even thinking about it. It happens automatically without your conscious effort.
It is important to be aware of how you breathe. It’s generally healthier to breathe through the nose than your mouth. Because nose breathing is natural and allows your body to use the air more effectively, it’s healthier.
It’s believed that approximately 30% to 50% of adults inhale through their mouths, particularly earlier in the morning. This could lead to bad breath or dry mouth.
This article will discuss the benefits of breathing through your nose and the simple breathing techniques you can do.
What is the difference between nose and mouth breathing?
Your nose and mouth provide two ways to breathe. Both lead to the throat, which transports oxygen into your lungs. There are some important differences between the mouth and nose breathing.
Nose breathing
Your nose was designed to allow you to breathe properly, safely, and efficiently. Because it has the ability to:
- Remove foreign particles. The nasal hair filters dust, allergens and pollen to prevent them from reaching your lungs.
- Humidify the inhaled air. The air you inhale is heated and moisturized by your nose. This warms the air you inhale, making it more comfortable for your lungs.
- Make nitric dioxide. Your nose releases nitric dioxide (NO) during nasal breathing. The vasodilator NO helps to expand blood vessels. This can improve your body’s oxygen circulation.
Breathing in the mouth
Your mouth is responsible for eating, drinking, and speaking. Your mouth can also be used to breathe. However, it lacks many of the same features as your nose.
In certain cases, mouth-breathing may be necessary. If you have a condition that requires breathing through your mouth, you might be required to do so.
- nasal congestion
- A deviated Septum
- Small nostrils
Try Nose Breathing Exercises
The breathing exercises can improve your nose breathing. These techniques can also improve lung function, strengthen respiratory muscles, and reduce stress and anxiety.
Let’s look at three types you can do for your breathing.
Alternate nostril breathing
Alternate nostril breath or nadishodhana is a common exercise in yoga.
This technique involves inhaling through one nostril, exhaling through the other, and closing the opposite nostril with your finger.
It requires concentration, which is great for improving mindfulness. This exercise may help improve your lung function and reduce stress.
Belly breathing
Diaphragmatic breathing, or belly breathing, is another name for belly breathing. This involves deep, slow breaths through the nose.
It is important to inhale deeply enough to fill your belly with air. This will increase the oxygen you can take in and slow your heart rate and breathing.
Breath of fire
Breath of Fire or shining skull breath is an exercise in Kundalini Yoga. It requires rapid, powerful exhalations as well as normal inhalations.
This technique can improve your respiratory function by activating your diaphragm and muscles. You might find it helps you focus and concentrate.
The bottom line
More beneficial than mouth breathing is nose breathing. Your nose can filter dust and allergens, increase oxygen uptake, and humidify your air.
Mouth breathing can dry out your lips. This can increase your chances of having bad breath or gum inflammation. You may also be more susceptible to allergies, asthma and coughing if you chew your mouth.