Wrapping Up Breath!
As we begin to wrap up our first Airway Book Club book, I wanted to share one of my personal favourite chapters from Breath by James Nestor “Chew.”
This chapter ties so many of the book’s themes together in a really powerful way.
It explores how the modern shift to softer, processed foods has changed the way our jaws develop over time. Less chewing means less stimulation for the muscles and bones of the face, which can contribute to smaller jaws, crowded teeth, and less space for the tongue and airway.
For me, this chapter is especially meaningful because it highlights something I care deeply about in my work, how oral function and breathing are connected!
There’s even a small but exciting mention of Myofunctional Therapy, which focuses on supporting healthy habits like proper tongue posture, nasal breathing, chewing, and swallowing patterns. These foundational functions play a role in how our faces grow, how we breathe, and how we sleep!
It’s a great reminder that breathing isn’t just about the lungs... it’s connected to the whole oral and facial system.
A Question for You
If you’ve reached this chapter, I’d love to hear your thoughts:
• Did anything in the Chew chapter surprise you?
• Did it change how you think about jaw development, your intake of soft / hard / dense foods or oral habits?
• Did any other chapter stand out to you while reading the book?
You’re welcome to share reflections anytime, even if you’re just starting the book months from now.
A Reminder About This Club
This is a low pressure book club.
There’s no expectation to finish on a timeline, and the conversation doesn’t close when we move to the next book. You’re always welcome to come back, finish reading at your own pace, and add your thoughts whenever they arise.
Learning about airway health is a journey, and awareness builds over time.
Tomorrow we’ll announce the next book pick for the Airway Book Club📘, and I’m excited to keep exploring these topics together!!!!!!
Thank you for being part of this community and for bringing curiosity into the conversation 🫁💛
Ashley :)