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Updated: Nov 22, 2025
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Investigation into Deep Breathing through Measurement of Ventilatory Parameters and Observation of Breathing Patterns
Published on: September 16, 2019
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Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Breath, Body and World.
Rebecca Oxley1, Andrew Russell1
1Durham University.
Body & Society
|January 11, 2021
Summary
This essay explores the multifaceted meanings and embodiment of breath, moving beyond its physiological necessity. It highlights the need for interdisciplinary research into how breath connects the body and the world.
Area of Science:
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Body Studies
Background:
- Breath is a universal physiological necessity, an automated process of inhalation and exhalation.
- Beyond its functional role, breath is influenced by experiences, environments, and relationships.
- Existing research has a gap in examining the embodied meanings of breath within the humanities and social sciences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the lacuna in understanding breath's meanings and embodiment.
- To explore breath as a central theme in the humanities and social sciences.
- To open new directions in breath and body studies through interdisciplinary perspectives.
Main Methods:
- Essay format, prefacing a special issue on breath.
- Interdisciplinary approach integrating various academic fields.
- Exploration of breath as a multifaceted phenomenon.
Main Results:
- Identifies breath as more than a reflexive action, capable of manipulation and influence.
- Highlights breath's role in altering the interface between the body and the world.
- Establishes breath as intrinsically shared yet contextually distinct.
Conclusions:
- Advocates for a deeper, interdisciplinary examination of breath's significance.
- Emphasizes the need to study breath's embodiment and its connection to human experience.
- Suggests that exploring breath opens new avenues in understanding the body and its interaction with the world.
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