Because I use Resp@rate near the end of the day, I find that I tend to doze off and lose my synchronization with the tones. I then found that if I keep busy (i.e. play sudoku, sort beans) while I'm Resp@rating, I can keep alert and stay with the program. My question is: does doing something else during a session reduce Resp@rate's effectiveness?

Bob,
First of all, you are not alone in "dozing off" while doing a RESPeRATE session. This occurs to many, myself included. I personally changed my default to a 10 minute session, rather than the defaulted 15 min and I use it every night, Mon-Fri. This way I am guaranteed to get my minimum of 45 mins per week! I'm also not too concerned with the synchronization stat (which is affected if you happen to doze off).
Now, to your question. It is a very good question and the answer is NO, you should NOT do anything else while doing a RESPeRATE session. The less you do and the less effort you put forth, the more beneficial the session.
Good Luck!
Marguerite (IMG:http://forum.resperate.com/style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)