My Honest Review of Eddie Stern’s “Healing Through Breathing: Four Lessons for Lasting Health and Happiness”

Eddie Stern, a renowned yoga teacher, author, and lecturer, known for his work in the Ashtanga Yoga tradition, studied under the famous yoga master Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. He has co-authored and published several books on yoga and is involved in projects promoting the therapeutic and holistic aspects of yoga.

“Healing Through Breathing” is a gem and a must-read. Having read it three times, I’ve decided it deserves a permanent spot on my list of recommended books.

Unique Perspective on Life
Yogis perceive life uniquely – not by the number of years lived but by the number of breaths taken. This ancient wisdom states that everyone is given a specific number of breaths at birth. The longer and deeper your breaths, the longer and healthier your life will be. “Healing Through Breathing” brings this idea to the forefront, offering an easy and enjoyable read with practical exercises that can be easily woven into your daily routine. Some exercises are so simple that I practice them even while driving. That’s how accessible they are. What Grabbed Me:

Fascinating History of Oxygen

One of my favorite parts of the book is when Eddie takes us back in time to when oxygen first appeared on Earth. He delves into the fascinating story of how oxygen shaped the evolution of life, ultimately leading to humans. Understanding the origins of this essential element will foster a newfound appreciation for the simple act of breathing.

The Science of Breathing

Breathing is more than just a reflex – it’s a powerful tool that profoundly impacts our nervous system. The book breaks down the connection between breathing and the nervous system in an easily understandable way. You’ll learn about the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic functions in our bodies, including the sympathetic nervous system, which kicks in during stressful situations (think fight-or-flight), and the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps us relax and recover. The connection between breathing and stress is explained: shallow, rapid breathing can keep you stuck in a stress loop, leading to various health problems. However, deep, mindful breathing can flip the switch, activating your parasympathetic nervous system to bring about a state of calm.

Practical Breathing Exercises

“Healing Through Breathing” isn’t just about theory – it’s packed with simple, practical exercises you can start using right away to improve your breathing. Here are my favorites:
– Resonance Breathing: This technique involves breathing at a pace of six breaths per minute, which can help harmonize your heart rate variability and optimize your body’s systems. The book guides you step-by-step on how to practice resonance breathing, making it accessible to everyone.
– Humming Breathing: Have you ever noticed how humming can be soothing? Humming while exhaling can calm your nervous system. The vibrations from humming stimulate the vagus nerve, a key player in the parasympathetic nervous system. The book explains the science behind it and shows you how to make it part of your routine.

Benefits of Conscious Breathing

Eddie discusses how incorporating these simple breathing techniques into your daily life can bring a host of benefits:
– Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Mindful breathing can lower cortisol levels, helping you manage stress and anxiety more effectively.
– Improved Focus and Clarity: Better oxygen flow to your brain can boost cognitive function and mental clarity.
– Better Sleep: Deep, slow breathing promotes relaxation, leading to more restful sleep.
– Enhanced Physical Health: Improved oxygenation supports your vital organs and boosts your immune system, contributing to overall better health.

“Healing Through Breathing” is like having a wise friend guiding you on how to bring ancient wisdom into your busy modern life. It highlights just how powerful conscious breathing can be for your nervous system and overall health. The book is filled with easy-to-follow exercises and practical tips that make it simple to take control of your breathing and boost your well-being. Whether you’re just starting with breathwork or looking to deepen your practice, this book offers valuable insights and tools to help you live a longer, healthier, and more balanced life.