#101 Dr Rosalba Courtney | Rethinking Functional Breathing Beyond Co2
Jun 30, 2024
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Dr. Rosalba Courtney discusses rethinking functional breathing beyond CO2, exploring topics like tailoring breath work, the Swiss Army Knife approach, brain waves and breath holding, factors influencing breath hold duration, research on CO2 levels, defining functional breathing, at-home breathing assessments, and techniques for improving breath hold time.
Breath work can improve immune function, reduce inflammation, and aid in managing anxiety disorders.
Deep dives
Breath Work Techniques with Dr. Rosalba Courtney
Dr. Rosalba Courtney, with over 40 years of experience in the breath work field, discusses various breathing techniques focusing on the importance of breathing as a pump. She emphasizes the significance of creating movement and pressure change through breath and its impact on lymphatic fluid, venous blood, and cerebrospinal fluid. She advocates for a range of breathing methods, from slow relaxed breathing to strong breathing techniques that stimulate fluid movement throughout the body.
Functionality of Breathing Control and Feedback
Dr. Courtney delves into the complexity of breathing control mechanisms, highlighting the feedback from respiratory muscles as a crucial factor in breath holding. She explains how feedback from muscles, such as the diaphragm and chest, influences the brain's respiratory control center. She suggests exercises like breath holding tests to assess breathing fitness and the importance of a multi-dimensional assessment approach.
Immune System, Chronic Inflammation, and Breathing Techniques
The discussion extends to the relationship between breathing techniques and immune system function. Dr. Courtney explores the impact of breath work on chronic inflammation, immunity, and conditions like arthritis. She mentions studies on breath holds, Sudarshan Kriya, and the role of breathing techniques in reducing inflammation and improving immune function.
Mind-Body Techniques for Chronic Anxiety
Addressing techniques for chronic anxiety and panic disorders, Dr. Courtney advises on incorporating mind-body approaches alongside breath work. She suggests indirect breathing practices that focus on the body first before integrating increased breath awareness. Techniques like visual focus and posture changes help individuals manage anxiety triggers and promote relaxation.
Closing Thoughts and Breathing Exercise
In conclusion, Dr. Rosalba Courtney encourages a mindful and flexible approach to breath work, tailoring techniques to individual needs. She emphasizes integrating the body into breath practices and fostering a holistic approach to breathing for overall well-being. The episode ends with a guided breathing exercise, 2-1 yogic breathing, aimed at promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system.
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Today's guest, Dr. Rosalba Courtney (DO, PhD), is an osteopath, researcher, author, and teacher with a PhD focused on dysfunctional breathing and breathing therapy. With extensive publications in scientific literature and textbook contributions, Dr. Courtney is passionate about both the art and science of breathing, believing in its potential as a powerful tool for healing when combined with movement and mind-body techniques.
Connect with Dr Rosalba here; https://www.rosalbacourtney.com/
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction and Welcome 1:04 Breathing as a Pump: Pressure Changes and Fluid Movement 2:22 Strong Breathing Techniques and Their Effects 3:35 Tailoring Breath Work to Individual Needs 6:42 The Swiss Army Knife Approach to Breathing 8:39 The Flywheel Effect and Hyperventilation 10:53 Brain Waves, Stillness, and Breath Holding 13:48 Factors Influencing Breath Hold Duration 18:35 Research on Breath Holding and CO2 Levels 22:55 Defining Functional Breathing 28:26 The Complex Control of Breathing 32:41 At-Home Breathing Assessments 37:48 Different Approaches to Improving Breath Hold Time 41:28 Breaking Habitual Breath Holding Patterns 45:41 Techniques for Loosening the Rib Cage 50:16 Breathing Practices for Chronic Inflammation 56:04 Mind-Body Techniques for Anxiety and Panic 1:02:27 Closing Thoughts and Further Resources
Greetings! I'm Mike Maher, your guide on this breathwork journey and the host of this YouTube channel. As a new father to a beautiful baby boy, I left my corporate career behind to pursue my passion - helping people harness the transformative power of breathwork. I firmly believe in the life-changing potential of the breath, and it's my mission to help the world breathe better.
Here are some ways we can connect:
🌬️ Download My New FREE ebook on Breathing here: 👉 https://www.takeadeepbreath.co.uk/5-Healthy-Breathing-Hacks
🧑🤝🧑 Join my private breath community and Breathe with others here: 👉 https://www.skool.com/takeadeepbreath/about
🙂 Discovery How 1:1 Breathwork Coaching Can Transform Your Life Today: 👉 https://calendly.com/mike-maher/discovery-call?back=1
📧 For All other inquiries email: take-a-deep-breath@outlook.com
Safety Information: Do not practice this breathwork during pregnancy, or if you are epileptic. People with cardiovascular issues, or any other serious health conditions, should always consult a medical professional before starting breathwork. These breathing exercises are a guide only, you should always listen to your own body and not push yourself, if you feel unwell STOP. Never practice breathing exercises before or during diving, driving, swimming, taking a bath, or in any other circumstance where the loss of consciousness could result in bodily harm. Deep breathing may cause tingling sensations, a ringing in the ears, and/or light-headedness. These are normal responses and are no cause for alarm. If you faint, however, you have gone too far and should take it more slowly next time.
Disclaimer The information provided in this video is provided for informational purposes only and is NOT to be used or relied on for any treatment purposes. All information provided by TAKE A DEEP BREATH is of a general nature, only for educational/entertainment purposes. No information is to be taken as medical or health advice. Follow this breathing exercise at your own risk. TAKE A DEEP BREATH or Mike Maher is not responsible for any losses, liabilities, injuries or damages resulting from any and all claims as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this video. There is the possibili
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