Benefits of Breathing through the Nose

Why does yoga promote breathing through the nose?

Many yoga students ask why is it better to breathe through the nose on the inhalation and the exhalation? I usually answer: it purifies the air, slows down the breath and encourages a meditation in motion during yoga practice. However, there are a wealth of benefits to nostril breathing.

Nature has created the nose as the perfect mechanism to filter the air that we breathe in and shield the lining of our lungs. The internal lining of the nostrils is made up of tiny little hairs called cilia. When we breathe through the nose, the cilia filter the air of pollutants such as dust and bacteria.

These nasal passages protect the respiratory system by warming and humidifying the incoming air - acclimatizing it to body temperature and keeping the throat and respiratory linings moist. Consistent nostril breathing clears the sinus cavities of the facial structure, the largest of which are in each cheekbone and above each eye, and fosters good air circulation.

In contrast, breathing through the mouth dries out the mouth and can lead to sore throats, colds or other problems. There is more resistance to air flow when we breathe through the nose because of the narrower nasal passages than the mouth - supporting a slower breath. Slowing down our breath calms and focuses the mind and we attune to the present moment.