As all scientists and most rational humans already know, at some point, mammals evolved from fish. As a result, even after millions of years of evolution, humans still have a couple of reflexes in our bodies that are triggered by water. One in particular, called the mamallian diving reflex, springs into action as soon as your face is submerged under water. Instantly your body tightens the capillaries and slows the heart rate so you don't use as much oxygen. Free diving has really exploited this reflex and now, "magician" aka "endurance artist" David Blaine is going to try to set the world record for holding one's breath. Its currently at 16 minutes - with lungs full of pure oxygen. Im not all that excited about the feat, though it is cool, what im excited about is the NYT article that talks about the human body and how is deals with things like lack of oxygen and carbon dioxide build up. Read more at the NYT.
No comments:
Post a Comment