Mouth Taping - How & Why
Posted in Breath & Lungs, Education, Longevity, Sleep on Oct 13, 2020
So . . . you want to keep your mouth shut. Obviously, you are NOT a politician. Congratulations. Mouth breathing versus nasal breathing was discussed in the previous article, “Nasal Breath, Nitric Oxide & Mouth Taping”. Here we will discuss simply “How to”.
The goal is to encourage nasal breathing throughout the sleep cycle. The first objective is to practice nasal breathing during the day, sitting at your desk, while driving or even while exercising. As you become comfortable with nasal breathing and humming (see the previous article) your airways will begin to change and the bones will shift to accommodate a more open airway. This will improve sleep, reduce snoring, and much more.
Nighttime taping is quite simple. There are a number of options:
You can tape your lips together with a single piece of vertical tape that runs from nose to chin or more commonly a horizontal piece that covers all of the lips. Simply relax the lips into a closed but natural position and apply the tape. If anxious about how this will feel then practice taping during the day first until you get accustomed to the feel. Remember though you will be sleeping when you do this at night so any nuisance factor will be removed by slumber.
If you use a CPAP or dental appliance, then the need to mouth tape is even greater. These devices are NOT a contraindication to mouth taping.
In the morning you may experience a little adhesive residue around your lips. This easily washes off but if this creates irritation then try a different tape until you find one you like.
In a very short period of time you may notice that the depth of your sleep feels better and your partner will let you know that snoring has decreased. Over time greater benefits will arise as your airway changes in accordance with your new open nasal airway.