What does Buteyko really do?

The primary aim of Buteyko method is to normalise the automatic breathing pattern. It is generally used to either eliminate an erratic pattern of repeated sighing or yawning, a rapid, upper chest pattern, or one of mouth breathing.

“I’ve spent most of my life breathing through my mouth because my nose was always too blocked. I’ve used nasal sprays and asthma puffers to control the symptoms of asthma but they have always been a short term solution. With the Buteyko method, I learned how to clear my nose and keep it clear without drugs. Four weeks after starting the course I haven’t needed to use any Ventolin. Something unthinkable just a few weeks ago!” Dave

In two clinical trials, it has been shown that by following the Buteyko method, people reduced their abnormally high breathing pattern by an average 31%, bringing it far closer to that of a healthy person.

This more normal breathing pattern allows better oxygenation, a calmer nervous system, normal function of smooth muscles and histamines, and also the immune system works more effectively.  Because of these things, the people in the trials reported their symptoms had reduced by 71 – 81%.