Dysfunctional breathing is prevalent these days, caused mainly by people breathing too much! This leads to alteration of the natural levels of gases in the blood, reducing oxygen delivery to tissues and organs, and causing constriction of the smooth muscles surrounding blood vessels and airways. Dysfunctional breathing habits lead to health conditions such as breathlessness, asthma, coughing, sinusitis, rhinitis, allergies, snoring, insomnia, sleep apnoea, fatigue, reflux, difficulty concentrating, panic attacks and anxiety. Breathing is innate, but functional breathing may require re-training if bad habits have been adopted.

​

Buteyko Breathing is a method of breathing re-education for people who have habitual dysfunctional breathing patterns. The method is named after the Russian founder Dr Konstantin Buteyko.

​

For children – Buteyko breathing is particularly good to develop good nasal breathing habits early to ensure good craniofacial development, decreasing the incidence of badly formed teeth, bad posture, restlessness and lethargy. Inadvertently it can also improve looks, concentration, immunity and energy levels.

​

For adults – Buteyko breathing is particular good to reintroduce effective breathing habits, better sleep habits, to boost the immune system, manage anxiety and improve fitness. Breathing re-education can have life-style benefits assisting individuals with stress reduction, maintaining a healthy weight, healthy eating and exercise promotion.

​

Functional breathing requires commitment if bad habits have been in place. Improvements can be noticed within days for some individuals, depending on how long they have had dysfunctional breathing. Like any exercise training regime, to be successful, it is recommended to practise appropriate exercises an hour a day per day for a minimum of 6 weeks. Individuals with severe conditions may require longer “training” to notice significant lifestyle changes, however consistent effort can ensure functional breathing becomes part of everyday life and wellbeing.

​

Buteyko Breathing Information and Training sessions are offered on the Gold Coast by Bronwyn Lakay, accredited by Patrick McKeown from the Buteyko Clinic. Contact her directly for more details.