“Is it for you?”
“Yes.”
“May I show you the Breathe Test first? It takes five seconds.”
The pharmacist places a finger on either side of her nose, beside each nostril. She gently draws the skin outwards and breathes in through her nose. The customer follows her example. Then he lets go and takes another breath.
“On the left!” he says, surprised. “I can feel the difference on the left. On the right it feels almost the same.”
That small comparison is what makes this interesting. A moment ago the customer was at the counter asking for a product by name. Now he has his own words for what he feels.
How much difference does it make to you?
If you try the Breathe Test yourself, pay attention to two things. Does breathing in feel different while you gently draw the skin outwards? And if so, would that difference be enough for you in everyday life?
“A little easier, but not quite enough for me” is just as valid an answer as “Yes, that feels comfortable.” Your answer can help you discuss with the pharmacist whether mechanical support might be worth trying. The test alone cannot explain the cause of your symptoms. If your nose often feels blocked, or has felt blocked for some time, mention that during the conversation too.
That day, the customer takes away a question you won’t find on any packet: “What does it actually feel like for me?”
Try the Breathe Test: https://tmbreathecircle.ch/#breathe-test