Nasal breathing is the act of breathing through the nose rather than the mouth. It has several benefits, including:
Filtering and humidifying the air: The nasal passages contain tiny hairs called cilia and mucus-secreting glands that help to filter out dust, allergens, and other irritants, as well as moisten the air.
Improved oxygenation: When you breathe through your nose, the air is warmed and humidified, which can make it easier for your body to absorb oxygen.
Better sleep: Nasal breathing has been shown to promote deeper, more restful sleep, possibly due to the production of nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide is a chemical compound that is produced by the body and plays a number of important roles, including:
Regulating blood flow: Nitric oxide helps to relax and dilate blood vessels, which can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.
Boosting immune function: Nitric oxide can help to kill bacteria and other pathogens, making it an important part of the body's immune defense.
Supporting brain function: Nitric oxide has been shown to play a role in learning, memory, and other cognitive functions.
Enhancing exercise performance: Nitric oxide has been shown to improve muscle efficiency and endurance during exercise.