CLASSES RESUME AUGUST 18th!

THE SHACK

Integrative Breathing Therapy (IBT)

In Person & Remote Options Via Zoom

What Is IBT?

Integrative Breathing Therapy (IBT), developed by Dr. Rosalba Courtney DO, PhD, offers a personalized approach to breathing retraining, promoting overall health and healing. This therapy combines scientific research with practitioner expertise to address the biochemical, biomechanical, and psychophysiological dimensions of breathing. IBT teaches the client to breathe in more efficient, functional, relaxed, and mindful ways, improving both physical and mental well-being.

For optimal results, IBT involves a comprehensive assessment and treatment of the individual and all aspects of the breathing system.

Conditions Treated With Integrative Breathing Therapy

Respiratory Disease

Asthma, COPD, Long COVID

Cardiovascular Disorders

Hypertension, Hypotension, POTS

Psychological Conditions

Anxiety, Stress, Panic Disorder, Depression, PTSD

Gastro-Intestinal Disorders

IBS, GERD, Dysmotility

Musculoskeletal Pain & Dysfunction

Chronic lower back pain, tension headaches, fibromyalgia, posture, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction

Voice Disorders & Vocal Cord Dysfunction

Vocal Cord Dysfunction and Chronic Cough, Dysphonia, and Laryngeal Dysfunction

Orofacial Myofunctional & Sleep Disordered Breathing

Snoring, Sleep Apnea, Mouth Breathing

Somatic Syndromes

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) & Lyme disease

Breathing Therapy Can:

Improve Airway and Lung Function: Enhances overall respiratory efficiency.
Calm the Stress Response and Improve Stress Resilience: Helps manage and reduce stress levels.
Influence the Function of the Autonomic Nervous System: Regulates automatic bodily processes.
Normalize Homeostatic Reflexes: Supports the regulation of blood pressure and other balance mechanisms.
Affect Efficiency of Circulation: Enhances blood, lymph, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation.
Influence the Immune System and Inflammatory Response: Modulates immune function and reduces inflammation.
Affect Function of the Digestive System: Improves digestive health.
Train the Mind, Focus, and Attention: Enhances cognitive function and mental clarity.

The 3 Dimensions of IBT

IBT focuses on three key dimensions of breathing to restore and enhance functional breathing & health.

Biochemical Dimension of Breathing

By accessing the biochemical dimension of breathing you can influence blood circulation, C02 levels, and oxygen. You can also reduce your degree of breathlessness during rest and physical exercise. Dysfunction in this dimension includes hyperventilation, hypocapnia, and disturbance of C02, pH & bicarbonate.

Biomechanical Dimension of Breathing

The biomechanical dimension of breathing refers to the physical mechanics and structures involved in the process of respiration. Some of these structures include: the diaphragm, intercostal muscles, ribcage, thoracic cavity, abdominal cavity, upper airway, and larynx. Because the body and breath are connected, we can use functional breathing to help restore functional movement. Disruptions in this dimension can lead to breathing pattern disorders, hyperinflation, ribcage restriction, and respiratory muscle tension.

Psychophysiological Dimension of Breathing

The psychophysiological dimension of breathing explores the relationship between the breath, our mind, and emotions. We can use the breath to influence our state of mind, while our state of mind also influences how we breathe. Using techniques that promote functional breathing can help to restore psychological, emotional and physiological imbalances and help us return to a state of equilibrium. Dysfunction in this dimension can result in physical, mental, and emotional health issues.

IBT Focuses On The Individual

IBT is not a one size fits all approach. Instead, IBT takes into account individual factors such as symptoms, assessment findings, lifestyle, needs, personality, goals, and history. IBT uses a two-part approach which includes a comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment.

Frequently asked questions

How do I book a breathing therapy session?

Click on the 'Ask A Question' button below and submit your request to schedule a consultation. Kristin will contact you about your specific needs and symptoms before your assessment and treatment session.

About Your Instructor

Kristin completed the Integrative Breathing Therapy (IBT) for professionals training with Dr. Rosalba Courtney PhD in 2022. Kristin knew from her personal experience- and through years of practicing various yogic breathing techniques- that how we breathe affects how we feel and our physical state. We can therefore change how we breathe to enhance our physical and mental well-being. The knowledge Kristin gained during her IBT training helped to link ancient practices with modern science to help explain the ‘why’ behind the effectiveness of different breathing techniques. Since completing her IBT training, Kristin has used this approach to help clients who struggle with stress, overwhelm, anxiety, back pain, vocal cord dysfunction, mouth breathing, and respiratory issues. She also implements these techniques into her own life to help promote the health of her body and mind.