The Bohr effect explains why breathing in more air does not necessarily mean we are getting better oxygenation.
We are accustomed to thinking that if we want to oxygenate ourselves, we must breathe more deeply and take in more air, but in reality, as paradoxical as it may seem, the opposite is true.
In 1904, Christian Bohr, a Danish biochemist, discovered that the hemoglobin that carries oxygen in our blood releases it to cells, tissues, muscles, and organs, including the brain, only when there is an increase in the concentration of carbon dioxide in the body and, consequently, a decrease in blood pH.
The lower the concentration of carbon dioxide, the more hemoglobin binds to the oxygen it carries and does not release it to the tissues.
In short, the higher the CO2 level, the greater the oxygenation of our body.
This means that to have good oxygenation of the tissues, muscles, and brain, we should not introduce more oxygen into the body, but rather increase the CO2 level.
One of the easiest ways to do this is to always breathe through your nose. This creates additional pressure and resistance that helps us maintain adequate CO₂ levels in the blood.
Holding your breath can also increase the level of CO₂ (carbon dioxide) in the blood.
In fact, those who practice apnea or conscious breathing learn to tolerate higher levels of CO₂, thereby increasing their ability to hold their breath for longer periods of time.
But be careful, practicing breath holds incorrectly can be dangerous, especially in water.
Would you like me to help you learn how to breathe consciously?
If you are interested in learning more tips and exercises that will help you breathe consciously in your daily life, don’t hesitate to book an individual session with me, a group session or sign up for the conscious breathing course.
Yantra Yoga and Respira Method teacher, Mindfulness facilitator, advanced Oxygen Advantage ® instructor.
