I don't know how many others here have ridden with Michael of the "Bicycle Inn" fame, but he's kind of a crazy older cycling dude who used to lead rides out of Bakersville, NC and now rides out of Charleston, SC (I believe). He's done the Assault on Mt. Mitchell something like 30 years in a row. He's kind of an odd, crotchedy older guy who can climb mountains on his bike easier than most people can walk to their mailbox.

Anyway, I was climbing with him a few years back and struggling. He kept telling me over and over to just smile. Force my face into a smile and it will open up everything, help me relax, align my upperbody and help my breathing. I did and it did...strangely enough. Maybe he was on to something similiar to the findings here?

I've also heard that touching the tip of your tongue to the roof of your mouth better opens up the airways and allows more oxygen into your lungs. I've never tried it while cycling, but it might also be part of the same principle.

Interesting stuff.