Breathing Explained: Wim Hof, Nasal vs. Mouth, Sighs & Stress Control Techniques | Jack Feldman, PhD

Breathing is something we do every moment of our lives—but few realize how deeply it shapes our brain, emotions, and health.In this Better Brain Podcast episode, we sit down with Dr. Jack Feldman, Distinguished Professor of Neurobiology at UCLA, whose groundbreaking research revealed how specific neurons in the brainstem generate and regulate breathing. His work has transformed our understanding of breathing’s role in consciousness, emotional regulation, and even survival.We cover:The biological fingerprint of breathing and what “healthy” breathing looks like How breathing interacts with consciousness and brain activity Surprising insights from sighs, yawns, and physiologic breathing patterns The science behind nasal vs. mouth breathing Techniques like Wim Hof breathing and how they affect stress, pain, and sleep Real-time demonstrations of how breath changes heart rate and emotional stateThe overlap between breathwork and psychedelics From obstructive sleep apnea to free divers pushing human limits, we explore breathing in every dimension—and even try breathing techniques live to see their effect on our own physiology.🧠 Hosted by Dr. Daniel Rafie & Dr. Kevin Bickart | The Better Brain Podcast🎧 Full episode also available on Spotify, Apple, and all podcast platforms.Connect with the Better Brain Podcast:Instagram: @betterbrainpod | @adel.neuroX: @betterbrainpod🌐 BetterBrainPodcast.com for exclusive content and the Better Brain Health newsletter.💡 Visit Our Sponsor: ContactMedicalServices.com👉 If this episode gave you new insights on breathing, stress, or brain health, hit like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.Hashtags#Breathing #BrainHealth #JackFeldman #BetterBrainPodcast #UCLA #Neuroscience #StressRelief #EmotionalRegulation #WimHof #NasalBreathing #MindBodyConnection #MentalHealth #PeakPerformance #BreathworkTo fully enjoy this episode, check out the video version by clicking on the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@thebetterbrainpodcast For exclusive access to unreleased UCLA BrainSPORT Podcast content, be sure to subscribe at BetterBrainPodcast.comConnect with us on social media:Instagram: Host - @adel.neuro Podcast - @BetterBrainPod Twitter: @ahdelneuroThank you for tuning in to this episode of the Better Brain Podcast!