“This book is for any person who wishes to have clearer functioning of his or her mind and not be bogged down with useless thinking. Within three weeks the result will be more control over thoughts, better concentration, more energy, more joy, happiness, and appreciation for life. This is a simple and straightforward self-help book approached from two different and yet related perspectives.
The first is about correcting breathing volume using a physician-developed program known as the Buteyko Breathing Method. Chronic overbreathing is a habit present with any person who experiences stress, anxiety, panic attacks and depression. It causes both a constriction of blood vessels and reduced delivery of oxygen to tissues and organs, most notable the brain. The Buteyko Method is a simple approach that significantly improves oxygenation of the brain, resulting in far less brain cell excitability.
The second aspect deals with recognizing the activity of the mind, the nature of thought and how to step out of thought. This too is essential to understanding your mind and taking control.”
~ Patrick McKeown from Anxiety Free
I really enjoyed Patrick McKeown’s great book The Oxygen Advantage (see Notes) where he introduces us to the healing power of optimal breathing. So, when I was preparing for our class on Conquering Anxiety 101 I decided to pick up this little book as well.
I’m glad I did. It’s a quick-reading, simple, practical guide to, as the sub-title suggests, “Stop Worrying and Quieten Your Mind—Featuring the Buteyko Breathing Method and Mindfulness.”
If you’re looking for a general introduction to the power of Oxygen, I’d recommend you go with Patrick’s more recent and more all-purpose Oxygen Advantage. If you suffer from anxiety and/or panic attacks, this might be a great place to start. (Get the book here.)
(As I briefly glanced at the reviews on Amazon, I was touched by the most recent review which perfectly captures the potential value of this book if you suffer from anxiety: “I have been suffering with air hunger, anxiety, and panic for 4 years. Just applying the breathing exercises this afternoon I already notice a difference. I can’t wait to feel the long-term effects of the breathing and mindfulness practices.”)
The book is part introduction to the Buteyko Breathing Method and how it can be applied to address anxiety and part essays on mindfulness. It’s packed with Big Ideas. I’m excited to share a some of my favorites on both breathing and mindfulness so let’s jump straight in!
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