I recently had the privilege of joining the podcast (see link for episode #205) of Nicole Smit, a hyperventilation coach and breathing specialist. As co-founder of PurelyGoods, this was not only an opportunity for me to explain our products but also to talk about something that affects us all: how we breathe, sleep, and cope with stress.
What began as an open conversation about nasal breathing and mouth tape, evolved into a deep dive into the influence of breathing on our mental and physical health.
The forgotten power of breathing
Many people don't realize it, but breathing is one of the most powerful tools we have to sleep better, reduce stress, and even improve athletic performance. During the podcast with Nicole, we discussed why nasal breathing is so crucial, especially at night.
Did you know that mouth breathing during sleep often leads to:
- A dry mouth or throat
- Poorer oxygen absorption
- Restless sleep
- Snoring
- Increased stress responses in the body
That's why aids such as mouth tape and nasal strips are not strange gadgets, but rather accessible ways to structurally improve your health.
Mouth tape: small aid, big difference
I get it – the idea of putting tape over your mouth might sound a bit daunting. But mouth tape is safely designed to gently keep the lips closed and thus encourage nasal breathing during sleep.
🎙️ In the podcast, we discussed:
- Why mouth breathing during sleep is problematic
- How mouth tape helps to get more oxygen
- Why this can lead to deeper, restorative sleep
- Why it's smart to practice during the day first
Personal experience
My brother (Floris) and I (Jelle) discovered the benefits of mouth tape when we ourselves were struggling with fatigue and shallow breathing. The effect was surprisingly quickly noticeable: better focus during the day, calmer sleep, and fewer morning headaches.
Nasal strips: breathe freely and sleep deeply
For people with allergies, stuffy noses, or who snore regularly, nasal strips are a valuable addition. They open the nostrils and provide more airflow – exactly what you need for deep, calming breathing.
🎙️ In the podcast, we delved deeper into:
- The difference between various types of nasal strips
- Why athletes use them for better performance
- How they help with colds or hay fever
- Combined use with mouth tape for optimal effect
The link between breathing, stress, and hyperventilation
As a hyperventilation coach, Nicole works daily with clients who struggle with stress, panic attacks, or a constant feeling of being rushed. And what always turns out to be true? Breathing is the key to recovery.
In the episode, we shared insights on:
- How incorrect breathing triggers stress
- Why many people unconsciously chronically hyperventilate
- How simple breathing exercises can bring back calmness
- How aids like mouth tape can help with breathing training
An interesting remark from Nicole was:
"Many people breathe as if they are running, while they are just sitting on the couch."
That made me think: how often are we stuck in a stress mode without realizing it?
Our mission at PurelyGoods
The reason for founding PurelyGoods arose from that personal experience with restless breathing and poor sleep. What started as a webshop for wellness products evolved into a mission to help people sleep better, breathe more calmly, and live healthier lives.
Our core products:
- Mouth tape for promoting nasal breathing
- Nasal strips for clearing the airways
- A sleep guide full of tips for relaxation and better sleep routines
We hear stories weekly from customers who report sleeping better, snoring less, or even getting their anxiety under better control.
Practical tips from the podcast
Nicole and I also shared some practical habits that everyone can immediately apply:
- 🧘♂️ Breathe calmly through your nose for five minutes before going to bed
- 🌙 Ensure a cool, dark, and quiet bedroom
- 💤 Use mouth tape to prevent mouth breathing at night
- 📱 Put your phone away 30 minutes before bed
- 🌿 Practice nasal breathing during the day, even during light exertion
These are simple adjustments, but they make a world of difference.
Conclusion: Small aids with big effect
My conversation with Nicole Smit was not only inspiring but also confirming. Breathing is perhaps the most underestimated factor in our health. Using mouth tape and nasal strips may seem like a small step, but it can make a huge difference to your sleep quality, stress level, and daily energy.
Whether you struggle with stress, sleep poorly, or simply want to live more consciously – start with your breathing.
🎧 Curious about the full episode?
Listen to the podcast by Nicole Smit via your favorite platform and discover all tips, insights, and personal experiences about sleep, stress, and breathing.
👉 Want to view our products or download the sleep guide? Take a look at purelygoods.nl/sleepguide
Deel:
Why You Should Breathe Through Your Nose While Sleeping
Does a sleep mask help you sleep better?