Brahmari Breathing

Studies have found that Brahmari breathing increases the release of nitric oxide in the sinuses, helping to reduce painful inflammation of the sinuses. Other studies have concluded that humming reduces blood pressure and lowers heart rate. You will find the humming sound very restful and calming for the whole nervous system. Focusing on the humming vibration also helps to focus the mind.

 

Cautions

  • If you feel dizzy stop and go back to your normal breath.

 

Let’s try

  1. Sit comfortably with your spine upright.
  2. Close off your hearing by placing the thumbs into the entrance to the ear canal or alternatively pressing the flap which is beside the ear to cover the entrance. Your fingers can lightly rest on the sides of your head.
  3. Inhale deep to the bottom of the lungs and on the exhale make a humming sound for the full extent of the outward breath. Let the hum resonate in your forehead, behind the eyes and sinuses.
  4. Continue for at least 5 long breaths.

 

Variations

  • Practice without the ears blocked off.
  • Instead of blocking off the ears place the fingers of one hand lightly on your throat and feel the vibration there as you hum.
  • Raise your finger tips to the centre of your forehead and raise the tone of your humming to feel the vibration behind the forehead, behind the eyes and in the sinuses.
  • Place your hand on your upper chest and lower the pitch of your hum to feel the vibration deep to the chest.

 

By Vrndavan Dasi

Founder and Principal of Veda Yoga Teacher Training