Buzzing Bee

Last weekend I led a Fall Wellness Workshop where we explored the many ways Yoga and Ayurveda inform the transition from Summer to Fall and how we can take meaningful steps to be healthy throughout the Fall and Winter seasons. This week I’m encouraging everyone to practice Humming Breath to 1) reduce anxiety and 2) relieve congestion.

Its Sanskrit name is Bhramari which means “female bumble bee.” And it does sound like a swarm of bees when everyone starts humming as a group! Let me tell you more about these two benefits:

1)    Humming releases nitric oxide (NO) into the bloodstream. NO is a molecule produced by our body when we breathe that has a calming effect on the nervous system. Humming is so effective because it actually releases 15 times more NO than normal breathing!
2)    Humming relieves congestion in the chest, throat and head. It’s a great practice when you’re suffering from allergies or a cold. Start to hum and you’ll notice a vibration that’s able to loosen mucous. If the congestion is in your chest, hum with a low pitch. For congestion in the head, use a high pitch. Otherwise, just use a normal pitch.

Bhramari is quite easy to do. Find a comfortable seat, or practice wherever you are. Take a deep breath in and hum on the exhale. Practice 7-10 times varying the pitch if you like. When you’re done, you should feel more open, free, clear-headed and relaxed.

Guess what! You don’t need to be on a yoga mat or use any special equipment. Your breath is always with you and ready to offer all of these wonderful benefits. Enjoy