Comparing Mechanisms and Applications of Two Breathing Training Approaches- The Buteyko and Wim Hof Methods
Rosalba Courtney, ND, DO, PhD

This lecture looks at the differences as well as similarities and clinical application of these breathing methods to specific types of patients. Both the Buteyko and the Wim Hof methods have passionate followers as well as skeptical critics and any confusion arising from this discordance is not helped by anecdotes of both positive and adverse experiences of people using these 2 methods. Research shows that both can be effective for health improvement in particular conditions and circumstances. Clinical experience also tells us that the effectiveness of any therapy or technique depends on the patient phenotype and the skill and knowledge of the practitioner.

Dr. Rosalba Courtney, ND, DO, PhD, is an osteopath with over 45 years’ experience as a practitioner, teacher, researcher and writer. She has a PhD in breathing and deep interest in the ways that breathing and airway function affect health. She was one of the first practitioners trained in the Buteyko Method in the 1990s and was founding chairperson of the Buteyko Practitioners Association and trained practitioners in this method in Australia, the USA and UK. This led to a broad interest in breathing and airway dysfunction and breathing therapy in general.  She received her PhD 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. She continues to be actively involved in research and research mentoring. 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 health practitioners in Integrative Breathing Therapy internationally. She practices in Sydney, Australia.

1 CE credit available to AAPMD members