Unlocking Breath-Brain Connection

Summary: Northwestern Medicine scientists have found that the act of breathing does more than supply oxygen; it also impacts brain function and emotional behavior.

The rhythm of inhaling and exhaling creates electrical brain activity that sharpens emotional judgments and improves memory recall. However, these effects are tied to inhaling through the nose, not the mouth, and influence the brain’s limbic system, which includes regions for emotions and memory.

The study provides new insights into natural responses to fear and the basic mechanisms of meditation.

Key Facts:

1. The rhythm of breathing has been shown to generate electrical activity in the human brain, affecting emotional judgments and memory recall.
2. Inhalation through the nose stimulates neurons in areas of the brain (olfactory cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus) tied to emotions and memory.
3. Rapid nasal breathing may improve brain function and reaction times in dangerous situations, possibly shedding light on the body’s natural fear responses.
Source: Northwestern University.

Breathing is not just for oxygen; it’s now linked to brain function and behavior.

Northwestern Medicine scientists have discovered for the first time that the rhythm of breathing creates electrical activity in the human brain that enhances emotional judgments and memory recall.