Buteyko is a breathing technique that is used as a treatment for people with asthma and other breathing conditions, according to the Buteyko Breathing Association. Dr. Konstantin Buteyko, a Russian doctor, developed this technique in the 1950's and it was officially recognized in 1981 for asthma treatment by the former Soviet Union. Buteyko practitioners serve as teachers to advise patients on how to manage their condition and help them learn the Buteyko breathing exercises.
Step 1
Sit and relax quietly for a few minutes in a peaceful place. Pay attention to how you are currently breathing. Gradually allow your breathing to become slower and slower, becoming more shallow.
Step 2
Inhale through your nose slowly. According to HealthGuidance.org, when using the Buteyko breathing technique breathing through the nose helps the body maintain higher carbon dioxide and nitric oxide in the lungs.
Step 3
Exhale through nose to fully empty your lungs. HealthGuidance.org states that mouth breathing is discouraged while doing the Buteyko breathing technique as it dries out air passages.
Step 4
Hold your breath in after exhaling for as long as you can, until the urge to inhale is felt. Do not try to hold your breath longer than the urge to inhale is felt. The more you practice, the longer you will eventually be able to hold your breath.
Step 5
Inhale slowly and hold your breath for as long as you can until you feel the need to exhale.
Step 6
Repeat these steps three to five times per day to practice controlling nasal breathing. While doing this exercise, inhale and exhale slowing as to prevent hyperventilating which can lead to over breathing in which people take in more air than the body requires, leading to loss of carbon dioxide. According to HealthGuidance.org, this technique can help people control breathing and relieve symptoms of hay fever.
Tips and Warnings
- Relax and focus on your breathing Practice several times per day
Things You'll Need
- Quiet area
- Chair to sit in
