My sessions begin in the Theraputic Zone (8-10 BPM). They end about 4.8 BPM. Will I get the same benefits as someone starting at a higher BPM rate.

This question/concern comes up more times in a day than any other. Most people are comfortable at a rate of 6-8 BPM. The lower your breathing rate gets, the more noticable the breathing pattern, of a short inhalation followed by a prolonged exhalation, becomes. When you start getting into the 5BPM or below, as I mentioned, it becomes more noticable and many people find themselves inhaling before the exhale tone is complete. Others inhale, hold their breath & then inhale seconds later. A lot of people tend to take deep breaths when they first put on the sensor belt & go through the recognition phase. These deep breaths are being registered at a low breathing rate. This isn't your natural breathing rate. We feel that it is better to start at a higher rate and work your way to a comfortable rate. Think of it as running a marathon. You can't run 10 miles on your first try...even if you would be able to your body will punish you for this! It's the same with Resperate.
Now, if you are truly comfortable and you have a high sync % and there is no effort or strain to maintain the lower breathing rate, then carry on! Just remember it's not a competition to see how low you can go!
Breathe Easy!
Marguerite (IMG:style_emoticons/default/cool.gif)