Ed Harrold Life With Breath Podcast

In this episode of "Life with Breath" Podcast series, we interviews Nick Sweeney, a former elite cross-country skier and breathwork practitioner. Nick shares how breathwork transformed his athletic career and recovery from injury, emphasizing its overlooked role in sports and life. The conversation explores the links between breath, mindfulness, performance, and flow states, extending to leadership and collective consciousness. Nick introduces his app, Coherence, aiming to unite people through synchronized breathwork for personal and global transformation. The episode blends personal stories, practical techniques, and a vision for empowering individuals and communities through breath.Episode Highlights:- Importance of breathwork in athletic performance and overall life.- Personal journey of a former athlete with breathwork, including injury recovery.- Lack of breathwork coaching in traditional sports training.- Role of consciousness and mindfulness in athletic training.- Psychological aspects of fear and faith in performance.- Biomechanics of breath and its impact on sports performance.- Techniques for achieving flow states through breathwork.- Collective consciousness and the power of synchronized breathing.- Integration of breathwork with personal and financial empowerment.- Vision for a movement promoting breathwork and holistic well-being.About Nick Sweeney Nick Sweeney is the co-founder of Coherence along with his brother Jack. His mission is to give people their power back using breathwork and alignment with the principles of nature. He has helped over 50 people, including professional athletes and business leaders, reverse their chronic health conditions and perform at the highest level of sport.Nick’s health journey began with a life-altering foot injury that abruptly ended his Division 1 ski racing career. When doctors told him he’d never walk properly again, Nick refused to accept that fate. Instead, he turned to unconventional healing methods, using breathwork, holistic health, and nervous system regulation to reclaim his mobility. In doing this he saved his cross country skiing career, captained the team, and competed at the national level.Today, Nick runs ultramarathons, hunts wild game, and, as he puts it, “breathes a lot.” His mission is clear: to manipulate, harness, and unleash the infinite power within the leaders of tomorrow. Get full access to Ed Harrold Breath AS Medicine at edharrold.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of “A Life with Breath Expert Series,” I’m speaking with Dr. Justin Ternes, a physical therapist and breathwork coach. Justin shares how he integrated breathwork into his practice, especially during the pandemic, and discusses the science and art of breathing. We explore the role of the diaphragm, posture, the power of the exhale, and the benefits of carbon dioxide and breath holds for stress management. The conversation highlights practical breath techniques, mind-body connection, and how conscious breathing can enhance physical and mental well-being for everyone.We begin as Justin shares his background as a physical therapist and how he integrated breathwork, especially during COVID-19.The Diaphragm: Foundation of Breath (00:02:55)Discussion on the diaphragm’s role, its structure, and importance in breath and overall health.Posture, Presence, and Breath (00:06:26)Exploring the link between posture, presence, and breath, and how awareness of posture enhances well-being.Functional Fidgeting & Everyday Movement (00:10:09)The importance of movement variety, subtle posture shifts, and how breath naturally moves the body.The Power of Exhale (00:12:09)Challenges with exhale, especially in older adults, and its role in stress release and emotional health.CO2: The Overlooked Superpower (00:16:54)Benefits of amplifying CO2, including CO2 therapy suits and the physiological effects of increased CO2.Breath Holds & Stress Adaptation (00:23:06)How breath holds, especially while walking, can enhance presence, stress resilience, and cellular health.Breathwork for Physical Health & Weight Loss (00:27:02)Using breath control to mimic exercise benefits, improve circulation, and even support weight loss.Education vs. Experience in Breathwork (00:33:42)Balancing foundational education and experiential learning for effective breathwork practice.Fast Breathing: Purposeful Stimulation (00:34:24)The difference between unconscious and purposeful fast breathing, and its role in nervous system activation.Breath and the Brain (00:38:10)How conscious breath control affects different brain regions, enhances awareness, and supports mental performance.Breath as the Root of Health (00:42:57)Breath as foundational to health, its role in metabolic health, and the importance of addressing root causes.Breathwork as a Spark for Change (00:45:30)Breath as a tool for personal transformation, connecting conscious and unconscious processes.Justin’s Future Vision (00:46:21)Justin shares his goals for expanding breathwork locally and online, and his aspirations to work with athletes.About Justin Ternes:Dr. Justin Ternes is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Breathwork Specialist, and founder of True Self Health & Human Performance. Based in the Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas, he works with athletes, executives, and high-performers locally and globally, using breathwork, mindset training, and psychophysiology to reduce stress, sharpen focus, and build lasting resilience.With over 7 years in physical therapy, Justin expanded his practice into a holistic approach centered on the transformational power of breath, helping clients unlock peak performance and deeper self-connection through intentional breathing. Known for his experiential teaching style, he leads both in-person and virtual workshops and breathwork sessions, blending traditional healing practices with modern science. Go HEREEd’s Some Cool Stuff!Join Ed for his Foundations of Breath workshop | February 17th | 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm | Join HERE * Breath AS Medicine Trainings: 25-Hour Designed for Health & Wellness Professionals OR 15-Hour Designed for Personal Trainers & Fitness Professionals* Breath Coaching Sessions Tailored To Your Individual Health Goals* The Breath Source Breathing App: Deepen your practice with myself and over 50+ Breath Masters.* Aires Tech: Aires is a wellness technology designed to support how your body responds to the modern world we live in—especially the constant presence of wireless devices like phones, WiFi, and laptops.* SapienCE: A membership that offers unlimited reflective learning opportunities that reward CME/CE credits. Once you have a SapienCE membership, you can use it for reflective learning for all your continuing education needs.* Accelerated Health Products: Founded by renowned, NANP certified supplement expert Sara Banta, provides premium, high-quality supplements crafted in the USA at their FDA-approved facility, using only the finest ingredients. Enjoy 5% OFF with link* World of Moosh: Make feeling FANTASTIC an everyday thing with the POWER OF MUSHROOMS* Hydrofy: World’s 1st hydrogen infused electrolytes Get full access to Ed Harrold Breath AS Medicine at edharrold.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of “Life with Breath Expert Series,” I’m sitting down with Danish breath expert Lotte Paarup, founder of 3D Breathing. Lotte shares her holistic approach to breathwork, emphasizing natural, three-dimensional breathing and the vital role of the diaphragm. She introduces her seven pillars of 3D Breathing, discusses the connection between breath, movement, and the nervous system, and offers practical tips for improving breath awareness. Our conversation highlights the importance of personalized breathwork and explores the emerging science of fascia, offering listeners accessible strategies for enhancing health, vitality, and well-being through conscious breathing.Episode Highlights:The Seven Pillars of 3D Breathing: A Deep DiveLotte’s 3D Breathing method is structured around seven foundational pillars. Each pillar addresses a unique aspect of breathwork, creating a holistic framework for transformation.Consciousness Around BreathKey Insight:Awareness is the first step. Most people are unaware of their habitual breathing patterns, which are often shallow, restricted, or disconnected from movement.Actionable Advice:* Spend a few minutes each day simply observing your breath.* Notice the length, depth, and quality of your inhales and exhales.* Avoid judgment—there is no “wrong” way to breathe at this stage.Turning on the DiaphragmKey Insight:The diaphragm is the primary muscle of respiration, yet many people have a “sleeping” or restricted diaphragm due to stress, poor posture, or lack of movement.Actionable Advice:* Place your hands on your lower ribs and feel for movement as you inhale.* Use props like soft balls or rolled towels under your back to encourage diaphragm activation.* Practice gentle, deep belly breathing to wake up the diaphragm.Facial Tissue ResetKey Insight:Tension in the facial muscles and fascia can restrict airflow and limit breath control.Actionable Advice:* Gently massage your jaw, cheeks, and forehead before breathwork.* Use imagery (e.g., “softening the face like melting butter”) to release tension.* Practice nasal breathing to engage facial structures and improve airflow.Freeing Up the AirwaysKey Insight:Open, unobstructed airways are essential for smooth, efficient breathing.Actionable Advice:* Practice nasal exhalation, which naturally filters and humidifies the air.* Experiment with different head and neck positions to find what opens your airways.* Use gentle humming or throat vibration to stimulate airway openness and vagal tone.3D IntegrationKey Insight:True breathwork involves the whole body, not just the lungs. The upper and lower body, rib cage, and diaphragm must move in harmony.Actionable Advice:* Try breathing exercises in various positions (lying down, sitting, standing).* Notice how your breath changes with different postures and movements.* Use hands-on techniques or props to guide your body into more expansive breathing.Core IntegrationKey Insight:The diaphragm is part of the core, working alongside the abs, pelvic floor, and back muscles to support posture and stability.Actionable Advice:* Engage your core gently during breathwork, especially on the exhale.* Visualize the diaphragm as a “floor” supporting your organs and spine.* Practice breathwork during core exercises (e.g., planks, bridges) to enhance integration.Movement IntegrationKey Insight:Breath should flow naturally with all movements, not just during exercise or meditation.Actionable Advice:* Bring conscious breathing into daily activities like walking, bending, or tying your shoes.* Notice when you hold your breath during stress or concentration, and gently release it.* Use breath as a cue to reset posture and movement throughout the day.The Diaphragm: The Unsung Hero of Breath and Core StabilityLotte describes the diaphragm as more than just a muscle—it’s a motor and a floor inside the body. In Danish, the word for diaphragm translates to “floor,” highlighting its role in separating and supporting the thoracic and abdominal cavities.Lotte’s Insights:* The diaphragm’s movement creates space for the heart and lungs, supporting circulation and body rhythm.* A stiff rib cage or restricted diaphragm leads to shallow, survival-mode breathing, which can tax the heart and reduce energy.* Diaphragm function is directly linked to core stability, posture, and even emotional regulation.Practical Tip:Spend time each day lying on your back with knees bent, hands on your lower ribs, and focus on feeling the diaphragm move down and out as you inhale.Breath and the Nervous System: Hacking Stress and Building ResilienceOne of the most powerful aspects of breathwork is its ability to regulate the nervous system. The conversation highlights:* The Vagus Nerve: The main nerve of the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) system, which thrives on movement and freedom in the thorax, spine, and rib cage.* Nasal Exhalation and Throat Vibration: These amplify vagal tone, supporting self-regulation and calm.* Personalized Breath Holds: Holding the breath after the exhale (rather than after the inhale) promotes relaxation and parasympathetic activation.Actionable Advice:* Practice slow, nasal exhalations with a gentle “humming” sound to stimulate the vagus nerve.* Use breath holds after the exhale to deepen relaxation, but always stay within your comfort zone.Fascia, Breath, and Emotional ReleaseFascia—the connective tissue that envelops muscles and organs—plays a crucial role in breathwork. Latte and Ed discuss:* Fascia’s Elasticity and Memory: Fascia is more aware and communicative than muscle tissue, and restrictions can limit breath and movement.* Emotional Release: Releasing fascial tension can free stored emotions and improve biomechanics.* Facial Fascia: Restrictions here can hinder nose breathing and breath control.Practical Tip:Incorporate gentle self-massage, stretching, or rolling (e.g., with a soft ball) into your breathwork routine to release fascial tension.To learn more about Lotte, click HERE So see us both on The Breath Source app, click HERE Get full access to Ed Harrold Breath AS Medicine at edharrold.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the “Life with Breath Expert Series,” I’m speaking with Stacey Millhorn of Pure Sweat and Float in Park City. We explore the science and benefits of infrared sauna and float therapy for detoxification, immune support, mental health, sleep, and nervous system repair. Stacey explains how combining these therapies with breathwork enhances relaxation and recovery. The conversation emphasizes the importance of slowing down, self-care, and reconnecting with curiosity and presence, offering listeners practical insights into holistic wellness and preventative health in today’s fast-paced world.This in-depth guide distills the main themes and actionable insights from our discussion, providing you with expert advice and practical steps to integrate these powerful modalities into your wellness routine.Highlights:* Infrared Sauna Therapy: Science, Benefits, and Best Practices* Float Therapy: Deep Restoration for Body and Mind* The Transformative Role of Breathwork* Creating a Sanctuary: The Importance of Environment and Simplicity* Prevention, Not Just Treatment: A New Paradigm for Wellness* Actionable Tips for Integrating These Modalities* Final Thoughts: Reclaiming Curiosity and Self-CompassionInfrared Sauna Therapy: Science, Benefits, and Best Practices What Sets Infrared Saunas Apart?Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air to over 200°F, infrared saunas use invisible wavelengths of light to heat your body directly at a cellular level. Stacey’s facility uses Sunlighten technology, which delivers three distinct wavelengths:* Near Infrared: Targets the skin, promoting wound healing and collagen production.* Mid Infrared: Penetrates muscles and joints, aiding in pain relief and inflammation reduction.* Far Infrared: Reaches deep into organs and blood, supporting detoxification and cardiovascular health.Key Insight: Infrared saunas can increase detoxification by up to 30% compared to traditional saunas, making them a more efficient and comfortable option for most people.Health Benefits Backed by Science* Detoxification: Sweating at a cellular level helps eliminate heavy metals, toxins, and metabolic waste.* Immune Support: Infrared heat stimulates heat shock proteins, which repair and protect cells, boosting immune resilience.* Cardiovascular Health: The body’s response mimics moderate exercise, increasing heart rate and circulation without physical strain.* Brain and Mental Health: Regular use reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), improves sleep quality, and may delay cognitive decline (e.g., dementia, Alzheimer’s).* Pain Relief and Recovery: Deep heat soothes sore muscles, supports joint health, and accelerates recovery from injury.Safety and Accessibility* Gentle and Low-Impact: Safe for most ages and fitness levels, including seniors and teens.* Medical Endorsement: Infrared light is used in neonatal care, underscoring its safety.* Contraindications: Always consult your healthcare provider if you have cardiovascular conditions, are pregnant, or have other medical concerns.Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Sauna Session* Hydrate Well: Drink water before, during, and after your session.* Go Natural: Use the sauna in minimal clothing or a provided wrap to maximize light exposure.* Combine with Breathwork: Deep, slow breathing enhances relaxation and detoxification.* Unplug: Avoid distractions—no phones or TVs. Use the time for meditation, reflection, or even a nap.* Track Your Progress: Wear a fitness tracker to monitor heart rate and calories burned (some report up to 500 calories in 45 minutes!).Float Therapy: Deep Restoration for Body and Mind What Is Float Therapy?Float therapy involves lying in a spacious suite filled with 1,500 pounds of medical-grade Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) dissolved in water at body temperature. This creates a zero-gravity environment where you float effortlessly, free from external stimuli.Unique Features at Pure Sweat and Float:* Large, open float suites (not pods) for comfort and accessibility.* Calming ambiance with starry ceilings and underwater soundtracks.* Couples’ floats available for shared relaxation.* Profound Benefits of Floating* Nervous System Reset: Sensory reduction calms the amygdala, lowers cortisol, and shifts you into a parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) state.* Musculoskeletal Alignment: Floating relieves pressure on the spine, discs, and nerves—ideal for chronic pain, injury recovery, and spinal health.* Brain Health: Promotes theta brainwave states, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and deep mental rest.* Magnesium Absorption: Epsom salt delivers magnesium transdermally, supporting muscle relaxation, sleep, and stress reduction.* Emotional Wellbeing: The experience of weightlessness and silence helps process emotions, reduce anxiety, and cultivate mindfulness.Hygiene and Safety* Antiviral Environment: High salt concentration prevents microbial growth, similar to the Dead Sea.* Rigorous Filtration: Water is filtered and sanitized with UV ozone and medical-grade hydrogen peroxide between each client.* Regular Testing: Gravity and salt concentration are monitored for optimal safety and buoyancy.Making the Most of Your Float* Let Go of Expectations: The first session may feel unfamiliar—embrace the stillness and allow your mind to unwind.* Use Breath Awareness: Focus on your breath to deepen relaxation and anchor your attention.* Try Couples Floating: Share the experience with a partner to foster connection and presence.* Post-Float Integration: Take time afterward to journal, walk, or simply notice how you feel.The Transformative Role of Breathwork Why Breathwork MattersBreath is the bridge between body and mind. Conscious breathwork can:* Calm the Nervous System: Slow, deep breathing reduces stress and anxiety.* Enhance Therapy Benefits: Prepares your body for sauna or float sessions, making them more effective.* Improve Mental Clarity: Slows down racing thoughts, creating space for insight and creativity.* Support Emotional Regulation: Helps you respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.😰 Learn more about Pure Sweat & Float in Park City here📲 Check out breathing practices for sauna therapy in The Breath Source App here. We continue to build out this section with our partners at Pure Sweat & Float in Park City. Get full access to Ed Harrold Breath AS Medicine at edharrold.substack.com/subscribe

What if you could rewire your brain, balance your hormones, and reset your stress in just two minutes simply by changing the way you breathe? In this episode, Ed Harrold, author, educator, and founder of Go Be Great, explains how mindful breathing can reset your nervous system, balance your hormones, and even transform stress into fuel for growth. Inside the episode, you’ll learn: - Why the way you breathe can wire you for burnout or resilience - How nasal breathing can influence focus, immunity, and hormone health - What a 2-minute breath practice can do for you in real time - Where ancient wisdom and faith meet modern science in the breath - How transformation unfolds in the lives of athletes, executives, and moms alike Get full access to Ed Harrold Breath AS Medicine at edharrold.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the "Life with Breath Expert Series," Ed interviews breathwork and movement expert Gray Caws. They explore Gray's holistic approach, blending the Oxygen Advantage method with mindful movement to support mental and physical health. The conversation covers the importance of intention, trust-building, self-value, and adapting practices for diverse groups. They discuss the science of circadian rhythms, the impact of mood, and the power of simplicity in wellness routines, emphasizing slow, mindful movement and breathwork as transformative tools for resilience and well-being in today’s fast-paced world.👉 Introduction and Gray’s Background (00:00:13)Gray introduces his work in breathwork, movement, and holistic health, and how he integrates these modalities.👉 Hybrid Techniques and Openness (00:03:34)Discussion on hybridizing modalities, being open to new techniques, and ensuring safety and scientific backing.👉 Universal Principles for Different Populations (00:07:28)Exploring how the same foundational practices apply to athletes, corporate clients, and others, with adjustments in language and approach.👉 Self-Value and Quality over Quantity (00:13:19)The importance of self-value, quality moments, and the challenge of quantifying subtle health improvements.👉 Heart Rate, Breath, and Conflict (00:16:07)How breath and heart rate influence conflict resolution and decision-making, and the value of slow, mindful movement.👉 Crawling, Movement Efficiency, and Learning (00:18:26)The significance of crawling and slow movement for stability, efficiency, and learning, including insights from Feldenkrais.👉 Slowness as Antidote to Modern Life (00:22:11)The power of slow, mindful movement and breath as a counterbalance to the fast pace and stress of modern society.👉 Bookends of the Day and Brain Rhythms (00:28:09)The value of morning and evening routines, brainwave transitions, and setting intentions at the start and end of the day.👉 Stress, Micro Victories, and Positive Reflection (00:30:27)Reframing stress, celebrating small wins, and ending the day with positive thoughts and anticipation for tomorrow.👉 Breath Rates, Heart Rates, and Nervous System (00:36:38)Breath and heart rates as indicators of nervous system state and their relevance in performance and health. 👉 Breathwork and Mental Health (00:37:41)The role of breathwork in mental health, the need for caution, and the value of subtle, safe practices.👉 Powerful vs. Subtle Breathwork (00:39:35)Balancing strong techniques like breath holds with subtle practices, and tailoring approaches to individual needs.👉 Mood, Circadian Rhythms, and Environment (00:44:08)Exploring the concept of mood, its links to circadian rhythms, environment, and personal experiences. Explaining circadian biology, cortisol rhythms, and practical ways to align breath and movement with daily energy cycles.👉 Simplicity, Value, and Social Media Overwhelm (00:55:30)Emphasizing the power of simple, accessible practices and self-value amidst overwhelming health information online.Learn more about Gray Caws @ https://adventuresinmovement.comSome Cool Stuff!* Breath AS Medicine Trainings: 25-Hour Designed for Health & Wellness Professionals OR 15-Hour Designed for Personal Trainers & Fitness Professionals* Breath AS Medicine Pro: An advanced, 8-week instructor masterclass designed specifically for nurses, psychotherapists, health & wellness coaches and fitness professionals looking to take their breathwork knowledge and training to the next level.NEXT SESSION FOR HEALTH & WELLNESS COACHING BEGINS SEPT 3RD* Breath Coaching Sessions Tailored To Your Individual Health Goals* SapienCE: A membership that offers unlimited reflective learning opportunities that reward CME/CE credits. Once you have a SapienCE membership, you can use it for reflective learning for all your continuing education needs.* The Breath Source Breathing App: Deepen your practice with myself and over 50+ Breath Masters.* Accelerated Health Products: Founded by renowned, NANP certified supplement expert Sara Banta, provides premium, high-quality supplements crafted in the USA at their FDA-approved facility, using only the finest ingredients. Enjoy 5% OFF with link* World of Moosh: Make feeling FANTASTIC an everyday thing with the POWER OF MUSHROOMS• 8. Hydrofy: World’s 1st hydrogen infused electrolytes Get full access to Ed Harrold Breath AS Medicine at edharrold.substack.com/subscribe

Before I sprint up this mountain, I breathe.Not to catch my breath—but to train it. To prepare my nervous system, prime my lungs, and get into flow before the first stride.Nasal breathing before a high-intensity sprint does more than calm the mind. It builds CO₂ tolerance, stabilizes heart rate, and oxygenates the body efficiently. It tells your system: We’re safe. We’re focused. We’re ready.Out here, nature becomes the track, the gym, the teacher. When you train with intention—when you breathe with intention—you’re no longer just working out. You’re evolving. You're rewiring how your body responds to challenge.And here’s the secret: the sprint doesn’t begin when your feet launch forward. It begins in the stillness……with your mouth closed, your awareness inward, and your breath slow and steady.Train your breath like you train your body. It’s your most powerful performance tool.Watch the video to see how I prep for hill sprints with nasal breathing—and then give it a try next time you hit the trail.👉 Train privately with me? Zoom sessions available for you or small groups👉 GET MY WORKOUTS IN THE BREATH SOURCE APP👉 PERSONAL TRAINERS & FITNESS COACHES …. LEARN MORE IN MY 15-HOUR BREATH AS MEDICINE TRAINING FOR FITNESS PROFESSIONALS Get full access to Ed Harrold Breath AS Medicine at edharrold.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we're talking with Cara Bradley, a renowned teacher and writer, to discuss mindfulness, movement, and personal growth. Cara shares her journey from yoga and fitness instruction to writing daily mindset messages on Substack. Together, they explore the importance of listening to the body, embracing self-compassion, and reclaiming movement as a joyful birthright. Cara offers insights on navigating midlife changes, letting go of self-judgment, and empowering women through education and awareness. The conversation inspires listeners to reconnect with their bodies and approach life’s transitions with curiosity and kindness.Mindfulness Practice and Introduction (00:00:13)Cara explains her move from podcasting to writing daily mindset messages on Substack.Cara’s Teaching Journey and Yoga Studio (00:08:51)Cara shares her background in teaching movement, opening a yoga studio, and her experiences in the fitness industry.The Language of the Body (00:12:12)Discussion on listening to the body’s sensations and the importance of movement and stillness.Childlike Mindset and Aging (00:13:43)Exploring the value of a childlike approach, aging, and letting stories fade into the background.Chronological vs. Biological Age (00:16:11)Conversation about mindset, energy, and not acting one’s chronological age.Interrupting Old Thought Patterns (00:17:00)Cara discusses how practices help interrupt and replace old, limiting thought patterns.Gardening the Mind (00:18:08)Using the metaphor of gardening to describe tending to one’s thoughts and mental patterns.Returning to the Body for Answers (00:19:32)Advice on using the body as a guide, focusing on pleasure in movement, and asking the body questions.Movement as a Birthright (00:20:54)Cara emphasizes reclaiming movement from the fitness industry and exploring diverse ways to move.Present-Moment Fitness and Longevity (00:22:54)Ed reframes exercise as a present-moment practice for deeper self-connection and longevity.Learning New Movement Patterns (00:23:31)Cara shares her experience starting CrossFit at 60 and the benefits of learning new movement patterns.Advice for Reentering the Body (00:25:19)Cara offers tips for those who feel disconnected or unsafe in their bodies, including self-compassion practices.Letting Go and Self-Compassion (00:29:27)Cara shares a practice of gentle inquiry and letting go, inspired by her meditation teachers.Rewriting the Story After 60 (00:30:39)Cara and Ed discuss possibilities and mindset for thriving in the next phase of life.Empowering Midlife Women (00:32:22)Cara speaks about menopause, supporting midlife women, and the potential impact of empowered women.How to Connect with Carol (00:35:24)Carol shares how listeners can find her on Substack and her website for daily mindset boosts. Substack: https://substack.com/@carabradley Website: www.carabradley.com Sponsors:👉 SapienCE: A membership that offers unlimited reflective learning opportunities that reward CME/CE credits. Once you have a SapienCE membership, you can use it for reflective learning for all your continuing education needs. https://sapiencepro.co/edharrold👉 The Breath Source Breathing Apphttps://portal.thebreathsource.app/register?pap_id=EdHarrold👉 Accelerated Health Products: Founded by renowned, NANP certified supplement expert Sara Banta, provides premium, high-quality supplements crafted in the USA at their FDA-approved facility, using only the finest ingredients. Enjoy 5% OFF https://www.acceleratedhealthproducts.com/?sca_ref=7973139.mwHA6DD7MNFi5d👉 World of Moosh: Make feeling FANTASTIC an everyday thing with the POWER OF MUSHROOMS www.worldofmoosh.com 👉 Hydrofy Hydrogen Infused Electrolyte water https://bit.ly/43WQC7p Get full access to Ed Harrold Breath AS Medicine at edharrold.substack.com/subscribe

Out here on the trail, with the rhythm of the earth beneath my feet and the sky wide open above me, breath becomes more than just function—it becomes a guide.Nasal breathing during cardio—especially while hiking or exercising at elevation—is one of the most powerful ways to train your body and mind. When you breathe through your nose, you filter, warm, and humidify the air. You increase nitric oxide production, improve oxygen uptake, and build CO₂ tolerance—all of which support cardiovascular endurance and cognitive clarity.Being outdoors amplifies these benefits. The terrain challenges your body. The altitude asks more of your lungs. And nature? Nature reminds your nervous system how to come back home.Watch this short clip of a recent hike and follow along with a few nasal breathing drills you can use the next time you’re out moving.👉 GET MY WORKOUTS IN THE PERFORMANCE SECTION OF THE APP👉 PERSONAL TRAINERS & FITNESS COACHES …. LEARN MORE IN MY 15-HOUR BREATH AS MEDICINE TRAINING FOR FITNESS PROFESSIONALS Get full access to Ed Harrold Breath AS Medicine at edharrold.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Peter Litchfield, an expert in human performance, respiration, and psychology. Dr. Litchfield discusses the intricate relationship between breathing and both physiological and psychological health. He explains that breathing is not merely mechanical but also a psychological phenomenon, emphasizing the importance of carbon dioxide in the body. Dr. Litchfield shares insights on the mechanics of breathing, its impact on heart rate and neural activity, and the significance of maintaining proper carbon dioxide levels. The episode aims to educate listeners on how understanding and improving breathing patterns can enhance overall well-being.Introduction of Dr. Peter Lynch (00:00:13)Dr. Peter Litchfield highlights his expertise in human performance and respiration. He discusses his journey into the field of respiration and its psychological implications.The Importance of Breathing (00:02:56)Dr. Litchfield explains the significance of breathing in relation to physiology and psychology.Carbon Dioxide in Respiration (00:05:29)A discussion on the role of carbon dioxide in the body and its misunderstood nature.Exhalation and Breathing Mechanics (00:10:12)Peter clarifies the passive nature of exhalation and common misconceptions about breathing.Breathing and the Autonomic Nervous System (00:15:52)Discussion on the relationship between breathing patterns and the autonomic nervous system.Breathing Mechanics vs. Respiration (00:18:30)Peter differentiates between breathing mechanics and the physiological process of respiration.Regulation of Carbon Dioxide Levels (00:23:35)Dr. Litchfield explains how the body regulates carbon dioxide levels through breathing.Breathing Rates and Physiological Balance (00:25:12)Discussion on maintaining carbon dioxide concentration regardless of breathing rates during various activities.The Role of Carbon Dioxide (00:30:11) Dr. Litchfield highlights the importance of carbon dioxide in oxygen delivery and its impact on the body.Understanding the Diaphragm (00:33:53) The diaphragm's role in breathing and its connection to psychological control is explored.Impact of Trauma on Breathing (00:38:20) Dr. Litchfield emphasizes that dysfunctional breathing can be a coping mechanism for trauma and PTSD.Learning and Habits in Breathing (00:45:05) Dr. Litchfield explains how habitual breathing patterns are learned and can be triggered by various stimuli.Case Study of an Olympic Athlete (00:48:44) A story about an Olympic athlete with unpredictable breathing issues highlights the complexities of respiration.Understanding Oxygen Issues (00:50:52) Discussion about a patient's oxygen problems related to eating and stress.Applications of Breathing Techniques (00:57:08) Examples of how breathing behavior analysis is applied in various fields.Specific Applications in Gaming (01:00:28) Case study on improving gamers' reaction times by managing carbon dioxide levels.Better Physiology Company (01:04:02) Overview of a company focused on identifying dysfunctional breathing habits.👇 Some Cool Stuff!1. Breath AS Medicine+: Sessions weave together breathwork, mindfulness, nature, psychological & physiological resilience and circadian health into a transformative holistic approach to improving your health and well-being. NEXT SESSION BEGINS JULY 12TH www.edharrold.com2. Breath AS Medicine Pro: An advanced, 8-week instructor masterclass designed specifically for nurses, psychotherapists, health & wellness coaches and fitness professionals looking to take their breathwork knowledge and training to the next level. www.edharrold.comNEXT SESSION FOR HEALTH & WELLNESS COACHING BEGINS MAY 28TH3. SapienCE: A membership that offers unlimited reflective learning opportunities that reward CME/CE credits. Once you have a SapienCE membership, you can use it for reflective learning for all your continuing education needs. www.sapiencepro.co Get full access to Ed Harrold Breath AS Medicine at edharrold.substack.com/subscribe