Description

Recorded in August 2020, Dr Rosalba Courtney hosted this workshop to explore these two popular yet contradictory breathing techniques.

Both methods of breathing training are used by patients to treat specific conditions such as asthma and chronic fatigue or to improve exercise capacity or stress tolerance. However, the Buteyko method teaches various forms of breath reduction while Wim Hof encourages deep and full breathing. Both methods have been demonstrated to be effective for some patients and both methods can be contraindicated or ineffective if used inappropriately.

She looked at the theories and research underlying these two methods as well as clinical matters such as how to determine which patients might or might not benefit.

In this 2-hour workshop, attendees also practiced the breathing techniques of these methods.

By the end of the workshop you will:

• Have an understanding of key research on effectiveness, and limitations of the Buteyko method and the Wim Hof technique.
• Understand the potential clinical application of these two techniques
• Be able to critically evaluate the theories underpinning these 2 breathing therapy approaches
• Be able to advise patients of the suitability of these 2 techniques for their personal use.
• Understand how to do the various elements of these techniques.
• Have experienced doing the techniques yourself.

About Dr. Rosalba Courtney ND, DO, PhD

Rosalba is an osteopath and naturopath with over 40 years’ experience as a practitioner, teacher, researcher, and writer. She has a Ph.D. in breathing and a deep interest in the ways that breathing and airway function affect health.

She was one of the first practitioners trained in the Buteyko Method 1990s, was the founding chairperson of the Buteyko Practitioners Association and trained practitioners in this method in Australia, the USA, and the UK. This led to a broad interest in breathing therapy in general.  She received her Ph.D. from RMIT University for her research on the topic of “Dysfunctional Breathing: Its Parameters, Measurement and Clinical Relevance” in 2011.  She is internationally recognized for her work in this field, having published over 20 peer-reviewed articles and several book chapters on this topic.

Rosalba has also completed training in orofacial myology and integrates this into her clinical practice.   Rosalba has presented at many national and international conferences. She is actively involved in research and mentoring of osteopathic students. Rosalba is renowned for her ability to synthesis complex information from the scientific literature to extract its practical significance for the clinician. Rosalba conducts training programs for practitioners and patients in Integrative Breathing Therapy in Australia and internationally. She practices in Sydney, Australia.