This chapter explores the significance of breath control in both freediving and everyday life, emphasizing insights from James Nestor's work. It delves into the mammalian dive reflex, physiological responses to water pressure, and the historical misconceptions surrounding human capabilities at great depths. Through personal anecdotes and training insights, the narrative illustrates how mastering breathing techniques can lead to enhanced physical and mental resilience.
Bestselling author James Nestor believes that we can improve our lives by changing the way we breathe. He’s persuasive enough to get Steve taping his mouth shut at night. He explains how humans dive to depths of 300 feet without supplemental oxygen, and describes what it’s like to be accepted into a pod of whales.
- RESOURCES:
- Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, by James Nestor (2020).
- Deep: Freediving, Renegade Science, and What the Ocean Tells Us about Ourselves, by James Nestor (2014).
- "Open Your Mouth and You’re Dead," by James Nestor (Outside Magazine, 2012).
- "The Brain on Sonar — How Blind People Find Their Way Around With Echoes," by Ed Yong (National Geographic, 2011).
- "How I Held My Breath for 17 Minutes," by David Blaine (TED Talk, 2009).
- Project CETI.