Mindful Breathing–Bee Breathing


This is a great mindful breathing practice for beginners, busy people, and children! Actively making sounds and engaging your hands means it is easier to focus on the technique instead of unwanted thoughts. Any time you are making sounds it gives you the opportunity to be silly, but also explore what sounds affect you in what ways.

This mindful breathing technique is used to calm your mind. The sound is intended to block intrusions and provide space for you to be in the moment. There is some evidence suggesting it relieves symptoms of chronic sinusitis.

Other benefits include:

  • Relief of anger
  • Decreased anxiety
  • Headache relief
  • Improved concentration and memory
  • Reduced blood pressure

 

It is recommended that you practice Bee Breathing on an empty stomach. In this video I am practicing a very basic version, but there are other hand positions that are worth exploring.

This is a fun one to do with children, for those that have them. It’s always a good time when you get to make animal sounds! It is not only great bonding time, but it also teaches them coping skills.

While you practice this consider:

  • How did your body feel before and after?
  • Did you change your posture as you practiced?
  • Were there differences when you changed pitch?
  • What times of day are spaces available for you to practice this technique?

 

For further reading and information about Bhramari Pranayam, or Bee Breathing:

5 Ways to Practice Bhramari

Bhramari Pranayama: How Bee Breath Can Calm You Now

Bhramari Pranayama

For my scientists:

NIH: The Efficacy of Yogic Breathing Exercise Bhramari Pranayama in Relieving Symptoms of Chronic Rhinosinusitis

NIH: Effects of Bhramari Pranayama on health – A systematic review

 

For more information about the practice check out upcoming programs and classes, podcasts and events, and/or schedule your free 15 minute consultation.

Disclaimer: This content is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for mental health or medical treatment. It is important for those with clinical and medical diagnoses to receive the appropriate treatment from trusted and trained practitioners.


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