The Secrets of Extreme Breath Holding

The video explains how humans need oxygen to survive and introduces the concept of breath holding. It warns against trying dangerous techniques and describes how elite breath holders hack three survival systems: the fight or flight response, the mammalian dive reflex, and diaphragm spasms. These techniques allow them to hold their breath for extended periods by staying calm, using the dive reflex, and ignoring diaphragm spasms. The world's best breath holders can hold their breath for over 11 minutes.

What is the average time a human can hold their breath before needing to gasp for air?

Describe how the fight or flight response affects breath holding.

What is the mammalian dive reflex and how does it help in breath holding?

Explain the role of the diaphragm spasms in breath holding.

How long can the world's best breath holder hold their breath?