In this episode of the Critical Oxygen Podcast, I am joined by Brian McKenzie where we talk about maximizing human potential and shifting physiology through proper breathing. In this episode, we discuss the impact of breathing on various physiological systems and how it can be used as a tool for improving endurance, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. Brian emphasizes the importance of understanding and controlling breathing patterns during exercise and everyday life. We also discuss the interplay between the aerobic system, the parasympathetic nervous system, and mitochondrial function. We emphasize the importance of nasal breathing during low level activity. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and optimizing our physiology for better health and performance. More about Brian: Brian is an innovator and pioneer in developing and applying custom protocols to optimize human health and performance. His work harnesses and integrates respiratory (breathing), movement, strength & conditioning, and endurance-based training approaches to elicit unprecedented positive results. His protocols and programs have been used to accelerate and raise mental and physical performance in world-class Olympic and professional athletes, first responders, musicians, actors, top executives, elite military operators, the tactical firearms community, prisoners in institutions, and the health of people suffering from chronic and pathological issues. TAKEAWAYS - Proper breathing techniques can have a significant impact on physiology and human performance. - Breathing affects various physiological systems, including the nervous system, oxygen utilization, and acid-base balance. - Monitoring and controlling breathing patterns can help optimize endurance, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. - Breathing through the nose and maintaining a relaxed, controlled breath can promote parasympathetic tone and enhance recovery. Enjoying these podcasts, subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released. If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment! Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2 Follow Brian on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_brianmackenzie/ Or visit his website - https://shiftadapt.com/ CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 09:04 From CrossFit Endurance to Respiratory Physiology 25:53 Monitoring Breathing for Optimal Performance 32:38 Transition Points in Breathing and Metabolism 39:04 Cleaning Up Limitations and Optimizing Performance 50:46 Understanding the Role of the Diaphragm in Breathing 01:05:42 The Importance of Flux and Flexibility in Physiology 01:13:27 Actionable Takeaways: Walking, Nasal Breathing, and Exploring KEYWORDS breathing, physiology, human performance, endurance, breath control, optimization, stress reduction, well-being, aerobic system, parasympathetic nervous system, mitochondrial function, breathing, nasal breathing, metabolic flexibility, stress, rest, walking, low-level activity, slow controlled breathing, stress reduction, physiology, health, performance