In 1952, Konstantin Pavlovich Buteyko, a Soviet Ukrainian scientist, proposed the idea that excessively deep breathing might influence the functioning of different body systems. He explored why this type of breathing affects the body and concluded that it alters the balance of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the body.

During deep breathing, the body loses part of its carbon dioxide (CO₂), which may affect its concentration in the lungs and blood. CO₂ is involved in many processes, including supporting blood vessel tone, relaxing the bronchi, and helping oxygen to be absorbed by cells. K. Buteyko explained that changes in the balance of CO₂ may influence these processes.

CO₂ plays a role in the release of oxygen from haemoglobin and its delivery to the cells (the Verigo–Bohr effect). According to the concept of the Buteyko Method, deeper breathing reduces the amount of CO₂ in the blood, while reduced breathing depth increases its concentration. It is considered that with higher levels of CO₂, oxygen is more easily released to the cells. The method is presented as a form of training in breathing techniques and regular practice aimed at developing a more natural breathing rhythm.