Good breathing patterns are vital to good health yet almost one person in seven experiences asthma at some time in their life and many suffer from aggravated symptoms on account of their poor breathing patterns. Asthma patients are generally well-informed about their drug management, but many have not been introduced to the physical coping skills that can dramatically improve all-round health. Moreover, asthma patients often develop poor breathing habits as a result of their symptoms - hyperventilation (breathing too fast) and breathing through the mouth. Although breathing is an automatic response, we can control it at a conscious level. Asthma patients can use the techniques in this book to control their symptoms, even reduce their medication. Good breathing patterns will improve health, not only in terms of posture and voice production, but also to maintain lung pressure and oxygenation, removal of waste products and reduce nervous and physical tension. In this book, two internationally recognized experts in their field discuss the mechanics of breathing and how the respiratory system works. They then explain their breathing re-training programme, which includes how to identify bad patterns, how to train your chest muscles correctly and how to develop good posture. Breathing correctly during exercise is also vital, as many asthma episodes are exercise-induced - indeed there are a large number of people who suffer episodes only under such circumstances. Whether you suffer regular or periodic asthma episodes or simply struggle to catch your breath sometimes, this book should help you to reduce your symptoms and improve your overall health.