Humming
It's a vocal warm up, a vibration raiser in the yoga tradition through the sacred sound of OM, and now modern research has uncovered the measurable benefits of humming.
James Nestor in his book 'Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art' describes how humming increases Nitric Oxide Production by up to 15 times compared to a normal exhalation. Nitric Oxide improves oxygen delivery, expands blood vessels and supports immune function.
The vibration of humming stimulates the nasal nerves to help clear nasal congestion. And because humming extends your exhalation it activates the parasympathetic nervous system - your rest and digest state.
So can you start humming regularly? In the shower you can be louder and who cares if you aren't tuneful (that will improve over time!). You can lightly hum at a desk or as you are getting ready for the next meeting or Pilates class to start. If you get an irritating email or a loved one triggers you, next time try the humble hum before you respond. It slows down your reaction which is better for all!
Hum checks
- Lips are lightly but fully closed
- Teeth are apart
- Tongue pressing gently to the roof of the mouth, not directly behind your teeth, but behind the mound where there is a natural place to rest
- Eyes open unless meditating or about to sleep.
- Feel the quality - is your hum smooth and continuous or are there little breaks/stuttering
Breathing assessments where we will go through humming and more, coming soon!