Meaning
Breath regulation (Pranayama) with the humming sound of the bee (Bhramara means bee, thus the sound created by the bee is bhramari).
Benefits of Bhramari Pranayama
1. Bhramari is a stress-buster, helping in alleviating stress, anxiety, insomnia, depression, high blood pressure, anger etc. The practice is helpful in tackling all psychosomatic disorders.
2. One immediately experiences tranquillity and peace of mind after performing this Pranayama.
3. It relieves cerebral tension and has a soothing effect on the nervous system.
4. The practice increases the healing capacity of body tissues. So it is good to practice this after surgery or accidents.
5. Keeps the mind on track as the constant focus is on the humming sound created internally.
6. Awareness level during this Pranayama is better and more easily achieved than with other Pranayama practices because the mind is easily absorbed in sound. It is thus helpful to even get children to focus immediately.
7. Improves mental focus, concentration and mental balance and guides awareness inward.
8. It cultures the voice and increases the tone.
9. It induces the meditative state of mind.
The Practice
1. Sit in a comfortable posture, preferably with crossed legs that ensure that the back, neck and head are straight and aligned.
2. Keep a slight distance between the jaws with lips closed. This ensures that the vibrations of the sound are felt clearly.
3. Inhale through nose and while exhaling slowly make a humming sound till you run out of breath (should sound like the humming of a black bee). The sound should be like ‘n’ in ‘ng’ as in the English words ‘sing’ / ‘king’.
This makes one complete round. The sound should be controlled but rhythmic, melodious and soft.
This complete cycle can be repeated eleven times.
Once you have finished the practice, spend some time quietly observing its immediate effect on your body and mind.
Bhramari can be practiced at any time to relieve mental tension and find relaxation.
Note
Before you starting the humming sound, sit with palms relaxed or plug index fingers into the respective ears or place your palms on the ears for a better experience of the sound. This sound differs slightly from Aum chanting.
Step1
Step2
Contemplation
Take the following points into consideration during the practice of this Pranayama:
1. Be completely aware of the sound created.
2. Feel the vibrations surrounding your lips, face and head
3. Keep and maintain the focus on the area between the eyebrows.
- Contributed by Divyayog (www.divyayog.in)
Yoga practice is a physical activity; kindly consult your physician before you take it up. You are solely responsible for your health while performing the practice.
