Recently science has discovered the existence of a “brain cleansing system” known as the glymphatic system. This system drains toxins from the brain and delivers nutrients as you sleep by the movement of CSF (cerebral spinal fluid) through the spinal canal from the sinuses at the top of your brain to your tailbone.
Deep breathing through the nose boosts CSF (cerebral spinal fluid) during inhalation. There is a significant increase in meditative alpha brain wave activity during nose breathing as compared to mouth breathing. Mouth breathing is linked to increased fight-or-flight sympathetic nervous system activity, while nose breathing was linked to increased parasympathetic nervous system activity, also known as the rest-repair-digest nervous system. Nasal breathing exercises are linked to better CSF flow which supports better brain drainage.
Optimal glymphatic function supports:
- Cognitive health
- Restful sleep
- Stable mood
- Immunity