The relaxing breathing technique of Bhramari Pranayama can help us connect with our authentic selves and calm our nervous systems. The humming sound made at the back of the throat during this pranayama—like the gentle humming of a bee—is the reason for its name, Bhramari, which means “bee” in Sanskrit.

How to Practice Bhramari Pranayama

  • Take a seat with your back straight, eyes closed, in a peaceful, well-ventilated area. Do your best to maintain a soft grin.
  • For a while, close your eyes. Pay attention to your internal peace and bodily feelings.
  • Hold your ears with your index fingers. In the space between your cheek and ear, you’ll find cartilage. The cartilage can be felt with the index fingers.
  • Inhale deeply, and as you exhale, apply light pressure to the cartilage. One option is to maintain pressure on the cartilage by pressing and releasing it with your fingertips in a bee-like humming motion.
  • A low-pitched sound will do as well, but a high-pitched one will get you far further.
  • Repeat this process three or four more times, this time breathing in.

Advantages of Bhramari Pranayama

  1. The mind is soothed and at peace.
  2. It helps take stress out of the brain and helps the pituitary and pineal glands work properly.
  3. It relaxes the muscles.
  4. Reduces nervousness and tension.
  5. Decreases blood pressure.
  6. Decreases anger.
  7. Improves throat health.
  8. Enhances and reinforces the voice.
  9. It helps the body’s tissues recover.
  10. Promotes deep sleep.

Read: How to Do Pranayama & Their Benefits in Daily Life

Who Should Not Practice Bhramari Pranayama?

  • Women who are pregnant or who are menstrual should not practice Bhramari.
  • People with epilepsy, severe hypertension, chest pain, or an ongoing ear infection should not use it as well.
  • It is not recommended to perform Bhramari when lying down.

When should you practice Bhramari Pranayama?

  • It is recommended to practice Bhramari (and most pranayamas) on an empty stomach.
  • You can practice bhramari whenever you like, but it is best to do it first thing in the morning or just before bed, when our inner sense is sharpest and there are fewer outside distractions.

Conclusion

Bhramari pranayama is easy to practice, even for beginners, but it is always better to seek expert guidance when starting its practice. Contact India Yoga School to learn more about Bhramari Pranayama and let our professionals help you understand it better so you can experience its benefits faster.