Why you should probably tape your mouth shut
Yes, you. You've said one too many ridiculous things today. And your breath is horrible. Lol, jk! That was rude and untrue (hopefully 😅). I'm actually talking to mouth breathers, snorers, and anyone who wants to wake up refreshed and more productive.
I started taping my mouth shut at night 6 months ago after reading James Nestor's book Breath. The book basically breaks down how horrible mouth breathing is for health and even brain function. Mouth breathing also changes the shape of a person's face over time (check out google images of mouth breathers!) 😳 But learning to breathe through your nose can actually reverse many of those changes.
I've always been a snorer (one boyfriend used to say I sounded like a cat purring in my sleep, hah). Along with the snoring, I often woke up with a dry mouth, feeling dehydrated and almost like, hung over. I was curious to see how forcing myself to breathe through my nose might change things for me.
I ordered some mouth tape and basically had a mini panic attack the first time I tried to use it. Felt a little scary to fall asleep knowing I'd have to breathe through my nose. But within half an hour I forgot it was there. And I'm here to report that I wake up feeling SO much more energized than I used to. And waaay less hungover. According to my dentist it may have even benefitted my teeth (since dry mouth is horrible for our teeth and our oral microbiome).
AND I feel like my productivity has sky-rocketed. Which is the real reason I felt called to post this here on IH.
Anyone else here use mouth tape?
I've wanted to try this but just thinking about having tape over my mouth gives me anxiety. I can't even snorkel because putting the mask over my face freaks me out. Any advice on how to ease into this? I'm determined now after hearing your results. 💪
Oh, I feel you! At first it was hard for me too. I think one key is to try it before bed for a few minutes at a time while you're doing something else like washing the dishes or reading a book to keep your mind off of it. Once you can comfortably sit for an hour or so, I'd say give it a go at night. It's so worth it imo! Good luck!
I've never heard of this trend. I'll take a look at the book. Sounds a bit silly to be honest but if you say you feel great, maybe it's really working.
What kind of tape do you use?
Hi there Steve, there's a breathable tape made by 3M that a lot of people like and I think is my preference. It's medical grade so you're less likely to develop any irritation.