Why nostrils alternate

Some smells take longer to detect and transmit to the brain. Right handed people appear to breathe more through their left nostril.

The cycle may also be related to heart rate, blood pressure, blood glucose levels, how much we blink, autism, fever, and much more. Really, so much of this function is a mystery. The next time you have nothing else to think about, see which nostril you are using more. For more information…. During the day, the sides switch and the other nostril goes into 'work mode', but why? I tried breathing through only one nostril at a time. Then I read a little further and saw that she recommends using her fingers to cover one nostril.

Got it. Okay, that makes it much easier. So why would this be calming? Breathing through one nostril reminds me of having a cold. Every hour, people touch their faces 15 times , and the less you touch your face, the less you risk contracting a respiratory infection.

The book goes a little further, presenting the breathing as a sort of alternative to antidepressants:. Friends advised me on the power of Xanax and raved about their amazing therapists. Instead I did yoga with my instructor, especially breath work. Okay, this book was written quickly and in a state of serious stress. Alternate nostril breathing is best done on an empty stomach. Alternate nostril breathing can be done before or after your yoga practice.

Find the way that suits you best as people have different results and experiences. Or you can do it at the start of your meditation practice. This may help you to deepen your meditation. Alternate nostril breathing may help you relax or clear your mind. Bringing more awareness to your breathing can help you to increase your awareness in other parts of your life as well.

While the potential benefits are promising, remember that you need to practice alternative nostril breathing regularly in order to see and maintain results. Always talk to your doctor before beginning any breathing practice, especially if you have any medical concerns or conditions.

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Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, Ph.