Buteyko (pronounced Bu-tay-ko) is all about improving your health by using the best of complementary and conventional medicine.

People with other breathing related conditions such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), sinusitis, rhinitis, panic attacks and snoring have also found the technique helpful. Buteyko is used as alongside other approaches, particularly conventional medicine. 

In May 2008 the updated British Guidelines for the Management of Asthma endorsed the Buteyko technique for the control of asthma symptoms, so that GPs and asthma nurses can now recommend it. 

The new guidelines grade the research on Buteyko as a 'B' classification - indicating that there are high quality clinical trials supporting the efficacy of the therapy in reducing both asthma symptoms and bronchodilator usage. 

On your first visit, your breathing will be assessed. You will then be taught Buteyko techniques, graded according to your condition, aiming to help you to breathe in a relaxed effortless way.  The breathing techniques themselves are not physically demanding and the majority of the programme is carried out sitting comfortably in a chair. You will also be encouraged to some form of regular daily exercise (such as walking) and to use particular breathing styles whilst you exercise.

For many people stress and emotion can play a part in bringing on symptoms. As part of the programme you will be taught techniques to quickly change your breathing pattern, this can prevent anxiety and disordered breathing combining to make symptoms worse.

You will be asked to practise exercises at home; if you do not do this practice you are much less likely to see improvements in your health. The good news is that by following the Buteyko programme the majority of people notice a significant improvement in their condition within a couple of weeks.

As Buteyko is about changing your breathing in everyday situations, no special clothing is necessary. Sometimes women prefer to wear trousers rather than a skirt.

Many people feel unhappy about the prospect of lifetime dependence on medication for themselves or their children and are looking for a self-help option. Buteyko provides that option.