August 2025 Book Club: Breath by James Nestor

Breathing is one of the simplest and most universal coping skills we use every day—but in Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, James Nestor offers a fresh and fascinating take on something we often take for granted. He explores the science and history of how we breathe, showing how small changes in our breathing patterns can make a big impact on our physical and mental health. What I loved most is how the book transformed such a familiar skill into something new, meaningful, and empowering.

Beyond the engaging stories and research, Breath also includes a practical section in the back filled with easy-to-follow resources. These exercises give readers the chance to experiment with different techniques, from calming practices to energizing ones, and notice how subtle adjustments can influence the way we feel. It makes the book not just informative, but interactive—something you can immediately put into practice in your own life.

Overall, Breath is an accessible, insightful read that reminds us of the power of slowing down, paying attention, and using the most natural tool we already have: our breath.