Taos Tap: Altitude Air Inflating Summer Copper?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

April 19, 2026

The thin air bites at your lungs as you step out of the car in Taos, New Mexico. You feel lightheaded, a dull ache throbbing behind your eyes. Altitude sickness. It’s a common foe for newcomers to this high-altitude haven. But what if there was a way to fight back, a simple technique passed down through generations of Taoseños, combined with a little local lore about the power of copper?

This guide is for you, the Southwesterner braving the heights, specifically those in places like Taos, Santa Fe, or Flagstaff. We’re going to explore a method I’m calling the “Taos Tap” (though it might not be officially named that!), a breathing exercise designed to help you acclimate, and we’ll delve into the curious belief in copper’s benefits during the summer months.

First, a crucial disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. Altitude sickness can be serious, and in severe cases, requires immediate medical attention.

Now, let’s talk about the “Taos Tap.” This technique focuses on controlled breathing to increase oxygen intake and improve circulation. It’s a combination of diaphragmatic breathing and pursed-lip breathing, both proven methods for improving lung function.

Here’s how to do it:

Find a comfortable position: Sit upright in a chair or stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Relax your shoulders and chest.
Diaphragmatic breathing: Place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach. Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose, focusing on expanding your stomach rather than your chest. You should feel your stomach rise while your chest remains relatively still.
Pursed-lip breathing: After the deep inhale, exhale slowly through pursed lips, as if you’re whistling or blowing out a candle. This creates back pressure in your airways, keeping them open longer and allowing for more complete exhalation.
The "Tap": As you exhale, gently tap your chest with your fingertips, starting at your collarbone and moving down towards your diaphragm. This rhythmic tapping is believed to help loosen congestion and improve airflow. It’s a subtle, gentle tap, not a forceful pounding.
Repetitions: Repeat this cycle for 5-10 minutes, several times a day, especially during your first few days at altitude.

The key is consistency. Don’t expect immediate results. Think of it as a gradual training program for your lungs.

Now, let’s address the copper question. You might hear locals in Taos talk about wearing copper bracelets or drinking from copper cups during the summer to combat altitude sickness and improve overall health. Is there any truth to this?

The scientific evidence is limited. Copper is an essential mineral, and it plays a role in various bodily functions, including energy production and immune function. However, the amount of copper absorbed through the skin from a bracelet is likely minimal and unlikely to have a significant impact on altitude sickness.

Drinking from copper vessels is a different story. Copper has antimicrobial properties and can kill harmful bacteria in water. However, excessive copper intake can be toxic. The EPA has regulations on the amount of copper allowed in drinking water.

The belief in copper’s benefits might stem from a combination of factors:

Placebo effect: Believing that something will help can sometimes lead to real improvements in symptoms.
Dehydration: Altitude sickness is often exacerbated by dehydration. Drinking more water, regardless of the vessel, can help alleviate symptoms.
Summer heat: The summer months in Taos can be intensely hot. Copper is a good conductor of heat, and a cool copper cup might provide a refreshing sensation, leading to a perceived improvement in well-being.

While I can’t definitively say that copper will cure your altitude sickness, there’s no harm in wearing a copper bracelet if you find it comforting. Just don’t rely on it as your sole method of prevention.

Here are some common mistakes people make when trying to acclimate to high altitude:

Ascending too quickly: This is the biggest culprit. Give your body time to adjust. If possible, spend a few days at a lower altitude before heading to Taos.
Dehydration: Drink plenty of water. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, which can dehydrate you further.
Overexertion: Take it easy on your first few days. Avoid strenuous activities until you’re acclimated.
Ignoring symptoms: Don’t dismiss altitude sickness symptoms as just a headache or fatigue. If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Here’s a real-world scenario: Imagine you’re visiting Taos for the annual Taos Pueblo Pow Wow in July. You arrive from sea level and immediately start feeling the effects of the altitude. Instead of pushing through, you implement the “Taos Tap” breathing exercises several times a day. You also make sure to drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities. By the second day, you’re feeling much better and able to enjoy the Pow Wow without being sidelined by altitude sickness.

Another tip: Consider spending your first night in Española, New Mexico. It’s at a lower elevation than Taos, giving your body a head start on acclimation. The next day, you can drive up to Taos, feeling more prepared for the higher altitude.

The “Taos Tap” is not a magic bullet, but it’s a simple, accessible technique that can help you manage altitude sickness. Combine it with proper hydration, rest, and a gradual ascent, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying all that Taos and the Southwestern U.S. have to offer. Remember to listen to your body and seek medical attention if needed. And who knows, maybe that copper bracelet will bring you a little extra luck along the way.