Frequently Asked Questions

Does breathing retraining help everyone with asthma?

Clinical trials carried out in Russia, Australia and UK showed that after 12 weeks practise asthmatics had 71% reduction in symptoms, 92% reduction in reliever medication usage and 49% reduction in use of preventer medication.

The majority of people who learn and practise the method experience an improvement within days.

Are the results permanent?

There will be a reduction in symptoms within a short period. Once a control pause of 40 seconds is reached there will be no more symptoms. If, on occasions, mild symptoms are experienced they are quickly reversed, by applying the exercises learned.

Is the Buteyko Method of breathing retraining only for asthmatics?

By reducing the volume of air breathed through the lungs there is a change in body chemistry and this will have an effect on the whole system for the better. Many other conditions are helped including rhinitis, hay fever, sleep apnoea, snoring, emphysema, COPD, anxiety, panic attacks, irritable bowel syndrome, allergies, fatigue.

What is involved?

A course consists of 5 sessions over a 2 week period, each session lasting approx 11/2 hours.

The specialised breathing exercises are taught and practised. This is followed by a period of talks and discussion on aspects of health including diet; good sleep habits, dealing with symptoms and how to use medications correctly.

Each participant is asked to practise the exercises between sessions and keep a record of his/her progress.

To get the maximum benefit it is recommended that the exercises be practised three times daily and adoption of modest lifestyle changes. Both exercises and lifestyle changes are designed to cause minimum disruption to daily life.

How long does it take to retrain my breathing?

This will depend on age and the severity of the condition. More importantly it depends on the willingness of the person to practise the exercises and implement modest lifestyle changes. Improvement is usually noticed within days of starting a course – eg improved sleep pattern, reduced asthma symptoms, less need for reliever medication, better digestion, more energy.

Is the method safe?

It is completely safe when practised as taught. I work with each individual until they are proficient and able to practise safely.

Should I inform my doctor?

I encourage each person undertaking a course to inform their doctor so that he/she is aware and can monitor progress and adjust medication as required, when improvement merits a decrease in dosage.

I am willing to discuss or explain the method or send literature if requested by any doctor. The more open the discussion and co-operation between practitioners the better for the patient.

What about my medication?

Keep on taking your medication as prescribed by your doctor. You will naturally take less reliever medication because your symptoms will be reduced. Your doctor will only undertake any further changes.

Do I need any special equipment or clothing?

No. This is an entirely natural process. The only alteration is in the method of breathing and a few modest lifestyle changes.

Can I exercise and play sport as normal during the course?

During the course I advise about correct breathing techniques for exercise and training. The correct technique will minimise the risk of exacerbation of symptoms during exercise or participation in sports.

What does it cost course cost?

The cost of a breathing retraining course is £280.00 or £300.00 for an individual course. This includes the full course and materials and follow up by email or telephone. If more than one member in a family the cost for the 2^nd £100.00.