Humming your way to relaxation

Yoga instructors are teaching it. Healthcare practitioners are encouraging it and Mayo Clinic even touts its benefits. What’s the buzz all about? Humming bee breathing.

Breath is essential for our physical, emotional, and mental health. What makes bee breathing different from other types of breath practices is that it uses a buzzing sound on the exhalation. Named after the Indian bee, Bhramari, bee breathing increases nitric oxide production 15 times that of what the body normally produces. In turn, the nitric oxide dilates the blood vessels which substantially increases the flow of oxygen.  

It’s the sound and vibration of bee breathing that soothes the stressed-out mind, releases tension, and relaxes the central nervous system. The increased oxygen reduces inflammation and blood pressure, regulates metabolism and boosts immunity. And you don’t have to be able to sing or carry a tune to reap the benefits.  

Bee breathing is done seated with eyes closed. The palms of your hands are placed over your ears and your fingers point upwards on the sides of your head. Both the inhalation and exhalation are done through the nose. On your exhale, make a humming sound, similar to a bee in tone and repeat breathing cycle 6-10 times. You should notice a soothing, gentle vibration in your face and jaw. Ahh….

VIDEO: LEARN HOW TO BEE BREATHE