Love At First Science Episode 83 Part 1 - Why Breathing Less Can Give You More with Patrick McKeown
Sep 12, 2025
In this engaging conversation with Patrick McKeown, a renowned breathing expert and educator, listeners discover the life-changing benefits of functional breathing. Patrick shares his personal triumph over asthma and sleeplessness through the Buteyko method. He reveals why the common advice of 'deep breathing' isn't always beneficial and emphasizes the crucial role of nasal breathing. The discussion also uncovers the historical context of yoga breathing and how small adjustments can significantly enhance mental clarity, physical performance, and overall well-being.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Personal Breakthrough With Buteyko
- Patrick McKeown discovered Buteyko breathing after suffering asthma, stuffy nose, poor sleep, and poor concentration.
- Learning nasal, lighter breathing dramatically improved his symptoms and started his teaching career.
Deep Breath Backfired, Light Breath Helped
- Patrick describes feeling lightheaded after taking full deep breaths before an exam and later finding relief with nose-and-blocking and breathe-light exercises.
- Switching to lighter nasal breathing warmed his cold hands and improved circulation within weeks.
Why Less Air Can Improve Oxygen Delivery
- Breathing more air can constrict blood vessels, raise blood pH, and reduce oxygen delivery.
- Reducing minute ventilation (breathing less air) can improve circulation and calm brain excitability.
