Book Summary
In “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art,” James Nestor takes the readers on an incredible journey to discover the critical, yet often ignored, aspect of our health and wellbeing: our breath. Nestor uncovers the lost art and science of breathing, an aspect of human physiology that has somehow been neglected by modern medicine. The book starts with a revelation: Nestor discovers that despite his regular exercise and healthy diet, he’s suffering from a variety of health issues, from disrupted sleep to high blood pressure. He tracks down the root cause and finds it surprisingly in his way of breathing. This realization launches him into an exploration that traverses time and space, from ancient burial sites, secret Soviet facilities to medical libraries. Throughout the book, Nestor presents scientific evidence, expert opinions, and historical anecdotes that highlight the importance of proper breathing. He experiments with voluntarily changing his own breathing patterns, leading to shocking health transformations. By changing the way he breathes, Nestor reveals the profound impact it has on alleviating numerous health issues, improving physical performance, and even augmenting human potential. “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” is not just a book about breathing; it’s a revolutionary exploration of an aspect of human health we’ve largely taken for granted. Nestor reminds us that breathing is not just a necessity for survival; it’s a potent tool for enhancing our overall wellbeing.
Author Intro
James Nestor
James Nestor is an American author and journalist known for his captivating exploration of human limits and extraordinary abilities. His writing has appeared in prestigious publications like Outside Magazine, Scientific American, The Atlantic, and others. Nestor’s background in adventurous journalism and his knack for exploring the most unusual aspects of human capabilities shine through in his work, and his books are celebrated for their insightful exploration of human potential.
Book Reviews
Nestor’s “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” is a breath of fresh air, an insightful, captivating, and powerful exploration of the art and science of breathing. Nestor’s personal journey, rigorous research, and engaging writing make for an enlightening read. As he unravels the importance of proper breathing, he reveals a fresh perspective on health and well-being. His accessible and in-depth investigation into an overlooked aspect of our physiology is both enlightening and thought-provoking. A must-read for anyone interested in exploring the limits of human potential.
“Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” is a testament to Nestor’s investigative prowess. His detailed research, coupled with his knack for storytelling, makes complex scientific concepts accessible. The way he links various aspects of human health to breathing patterns opens up a new perspective on holistic wellbeing. However, some of the scientific claims made could have benefited from more robust empirical evidence. Despite this, the book serves as an intriguing guide to understanding the power and potential of proper breathing.
Nestor’s “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” offers a comprehensive exploration of the forgotten art of breathing. It dives into the science and history of breath, making compelling arguments about its importance in health and wellness. While Nestor’s narrative style is engaging, the book sometimes reads more like a personal adventure than a scientific treatise. It would have been beneficial to see more emphasis on rigorous scientific evidence supporting some of the practices promoted. Nonetheless, it is an intriguing and thought-provoking read.
While Nestor’s “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art” is an ambitious and far-reaching exploration of the power of breath, it falls short in a few key areas. The book attempts to cover a broad scope of topics related to breathing and its implications for health, but some sections appear anecdotal and less grounded in solid scientific evidence. Nestor’s personal experiences, while fascinating, are not a substitute for rigorous, peer-reviewed research. Nevertheless, it’s a thought-provoking read that reminds us of the fundamental importance of proper breathing.
