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A
System To Correct The Breathing
Over 45
years ago Professor Buteyko developed a system to normalise the
breathing, thereby normalising the level of carbon dioxide. Techniques
were developed to re-train the complex involuntary mechanisms that
govern our breathing.
We breathe
thousands of times a day and we have developed defence and compensatory
mechanisms (often described as diseases) that compensate for our
dysfunctional breathing. For these reasons it is not a simple matter
to change or normalise a human's breathing pattern. "Playing
the piano is simple, you just hit the keys with your fingers. Making
music, however, takes practice and expert tuition, and so it is
with reconditioning the breathing".
Professor
Buteyko developed a series of special breathing exercises, techniques
and lifestyle changes that are taught over a minimum of five sessions.
Some patients will require more than five sessions, depending on
their individual condition.
Patients
are first taught to overcome symptoms using Buteyko's techniques.
For asthmatics this quickly results in the ability to overcome asthma
attacks by restoring a higher level of carbon dioxide, which dilates
the bronchial tubes. Wheezes, coughs and breathlessness also succumb
to these techniques. In the course of time and with practice the
average breathing pattern becomes more normal and symptoms occur
with less frequency and severity. Naturally the requirement for
'rescue' medication is substantially reduced or eliminated. A doctor
can provide the proper advice regarding preventative medication
as the condition continues to improve.
Patients
with emphysema (who generally take the same drugs as asthmatics)
will slowly find they can walk further before becoming breathless
and those with allergies, bronchitis, coughs and snoring also find
their symptoms are first reduced then removed.
Generally
all patients are delighted to find an increase in vigour, concentration
and the elimination of many symptoms that one would not necessarily
attribute to improved breathing.
Buteyko's
method should only be taught by a certified Buteyko practitioner-
ask to see credentials - or a medical doctor. The Buteyko method
is especially suitable for children (five and over) who often get
results more quickly than adults. In fact, most children enjoy their
special Buteyko techniques and exercises.
Should
I Stop My Medication?
No. When
you learn Buteyko's method you'll find you have fewer symptoms and
therefore less requirement for symptomatic medicine. However, you
should always consult your doctor before modifying your medication.
Generally, you'll find your doctor will be pleased to reduce your
medication providing your condition is improved.
What
Is Required?
For a
minimum of five sessions of treatment you will be required to adhere
to some basic lifestyle changes and to perform some breathing exercises
everyday. Depending on your progress, you'll find you can practice
Buteyko's method with little or no intrusion on your normal routine.
In fact, most patients find they can enjoy a level of sports and
fitness they previously thought impossible.
What
About My Doctor?
Tell your
doctor what you are doing so he/she may monitor your progress. The
Buteyko Practitioner will be pleased to discuss, explain or send
appropriate literature upon request. Most doctors are pleased to
see their patients' reliance
on drugs
of any kind reduced or diminished. However, they are often sceptical
(with good reason), at first, of any new method that claims such
unprecedented results.
My
Condition Is Very Severe.Will It Help Me?
Often
the more severe the problem the more dramatic the improvement. If
in doubt, consult a Buteyko practitioner before enroling on a course.
Sports
and Fitness
For some
time Russian athletes have benefited from special Buteyko training
whereby they increase their stamina, performance and recovery.
If
Buteyko’s Method is So Successful, Why Isn’t It General
Practice?
It is
hoped that when more doctors see the research and trial data they
will join the growing numbers of doctors who endorse and recommend
this drug-free method. It is hoped that one day the Buteyko Method
will be available on the NHS.
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