The Breath of Life, or Mal-Respiration

George Catlin’s classic work, where he passionately supports the practice of closing the mouth whilst breathing, is reproduced here in full including his illustrations.

In the author’s opinion, closing the mouth is a way of ensuring a better mood and overall state in life. His lively illustrations contrast a person whose mouth is often open - whether during sleep or waking hours - with an individual whose mouth is generally shut. Catlin’s opinions were never accepted …