In Breath Taking, pulmonologist Michael Stephen takes us on a journey to shed original and much-needed light on our neglected and extraordinary lungs, at a most critical societal moment. He relates the history of oxygen on Earth and the evolutionary origins of breathing, and explores the healing power of breath and its spiritual potential. He explains in lay terms the links our lungs have with our immune system and with society at large. And he offers illuminating chronicles of pulmonary research and discoveryfrom Galen in the ancient world to pioneers of lung transplantand poignant human stories of resilience and recoveryfrom the frantic attempts to engage his own sons lungs at birth to patients he treats for cystic fibrosis today.

Despite great advances in science, our lungs are ever more threatened. Asthma is more prevalent than ever; rising stress levels make our lungs vulnerable to disease; and COVID-19 has revealed that vulnerability in historic ways. In this time, Breath Taking offers inspiration and hope to millions whose lungs are affected and vital perspective to us all.

Format: Paperback
Published: 2022, USA
Publisher: Grove Press
Pages: 311
Language: EnglishISBN 13: 9780802149329
ISBN 10: 0802149324