Bumble Bee Breathing

Bumble Bee Breathing, Bhramari in Sanskrit, stimulates and purifies the energetic center of communication - the throat. Yoga texts explain that this form of breathing frees the mind of "inner chatter" and prepares you to discover your true voice. With practice, bumble bee breathing posits to improve concentration, memory and confidence. More profoundly, it develops a greater willingness to listen and the ability to communicate at a deeper level.

Bumble Bee Breathing Exercise

• Sit with your back straight, your chest and abdomen free of tension. Rest your palms on your knees. Softly seal your lips and gently tighten the back of your throat keeping your head level and your neck muscles relaxed.

• Inhale strongly through both nostrils, holding the breath for a few moments or as long as you feel comfortable. When you are ready, exhale through both nostrils making the bumble bee humming sound "MMM". Exhale the air from your lungs.

• Repeat the exercise 3-5 times as you feel the vibration in your throat, mouth, cheeks and lips. Humming as you breathe out helps to regulate the breathing pattern and encourages an extended exhalation. After you have finished, close your eyes and breathe silently for 5-10 minutes. Notice the effect of humming on your mind. You may experience a greater inner peace.

Source: The Power of Breath by Swami Saradananda