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The Buteyko Breathing Technique: Coaching & Exercises

A woman breathing deeply through her nose with her eyes closed.

Improper breathing patterns, such as mouth breathing, have been linked to a number of health issues. Common problems include anxiety, migraines, depression, and sleep apnea. Many people who suffer from sleep apnea also experience Bruxism (teeth grinding), TMJ disorders, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, etc.

It’s estimated that between 50-70 million Americans have a chronic, or ongoing, sleep disorder. Sleep-related breathing disorders and general breathing issues can cause serious physical and mental side effects if left untreated. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of the most common issues that occur from improper breathing.

One of the best ways to address improper breathing is with special exercises designed to retrain the body to breathe properly. The Buteyko breathing method was first invented by Konstantin Buteyko, a Ukrainian doctor who noticed there was a significant connection between how human beings breathe, and illness.

The Buteyko method is used to treat a number of health conditions. It has been shown to help reduce asthma symptoms, anxiety, and even improve or cure sleep apnea.

How It Works

If you’re wondering how to do Buteyko breathing exercises, our professionals at Beyond Smiles can help. Our team member Gerri Huffman, RDH, is a Certified Orofacial Myofunctional therapist. She has become a Certified Buteyko Breathing Practitioner. Gerri is here to advise patients on whether they might benefit from Buteyko breathing coaching.

Frequently, coaching is done during individual sessions, but periodically group sessions are scheduled.

The Buteyko method includes a series of breathing exercises and guidelines for those exercises. They are specifically designed to reduce overbreathing and therefore, mouth breathing. Those who do not practice nasal breathing can suffer from sleep apnea, as well as various other health issues.

Can Breathing Exercises Help Sleep Apnea?

Approximately 39 million adults in the United States have obstructive sleep apnea, the most common form of sleep apnea. Fortunately, using Buteyko breathing exercises to cure sleep apnea or reduce symptoms is often highly beneficial.

The Buteyko technique can be effective in treating sleep apnea because it teaches individuals to breathe more slowly and less deeply. This approach aims to help patients maintain an open airway during sleep. By practicing these controlled breathing techniques, patients may experience better sleep quality and a decrease in sleep apnea symptoms.

Sleep apnea can cause a variety of health issues. Some include cardiovascular problems which lead to heart palpitations and cold extremities, or respiratory issues like shortness of breath, air hunger, and sighing. Individuals may also suffer from muscle pains, cramping, GI issues, and mental health problems like anxiety, depression, impaired memory, difficulty concentrating, nightmares, fatigue, etc.

One of the most common symptoms experienced by sleep apnea sufferers is snoring. This can have a negative impact not only on sleep quality but also on a person’s closest relationships.

Breathing Exercises for Snoring

Snoring is also treatable with Buteyko breathing exercises. Buteyko breathing teaches individuals to breathe through the nose rather than the mouth. This promotes a more relaxed and controlled breathing pattern. This method helps in stabilizing the breath, reducing the tendency for the airways to narrow or block during sleep.

Buteyko Breathing for Asthma

Buteyko breathing exercises aim to mitigate asthma symptoms by teaching individuals to control their breathing, reducing hyperventilation. Enhancing healthy breathing patterns can reduce the frequency and intensity of asthma attacks. By practicing these breathing exercises regularly, individuals with asthma may experience a reduction in medication reliance.

Causes of Mouth Breathing

Mouth breathing can be caused by a genetic issue, or external influences such as lifestyle and environment. Below is a list of some of the most causes of mouth breathing.

  • Lack of exercise

  • Talking too quickly or excessively

  • Stress

  • Hectic lifestyle

  • Taking too deep of breaths

  • Genetic predisposition

  • High temperatures in the home

  • Asthma

Nasal breathing has many benefits since it’s actually the way our bodies are supposed to perform. When breathing properly, blood circulation is improved, we release nitric oxide from the body, breathe in cleaner air, sleep better, and reduce stress levels.

Long Term Benefits

The benefits of Buteyko breathing exercises are endless, but the most significant effect we see in sleep apnea patients is a reduction or total elimination of symptoms. For asthma sufferers, Buteyko breathing methods can potentially reduce the frequency of asthma attacks and need for medication.

With better breathing comes better sleep. Individuals who master proper breathing techniques will see a decrease in anxiety, improved overall health, reduced snoring, and many other benefits.

Your Trusted Source for Buteyko Breathing Coaching in Park Ridge, IL

If you’ve been searching for “breathing coaching near me” or a place that treats sleep apnea in Park Ridge, reach out to our office today! The team at Beyond Smiles is here to help patients breathe easier, smile better, and improve their overall health. We also offer airway dentistry services.

Contact us to schedule your appointment! Our team has experience and education in applying healthy breathing techniques to improve patients’ lives.

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