Introduction to Bhramari Pranayama

We live fast-paced lives and often find ourselves running short on time. As a result, we might find ourselves experiencing anxiety. Yoga serves as the perfect tool as it allows us to effectively combat this anxiety as it helps calm the mind. This particular write-up examines the benefits associated with the yoga practice of Bhramari Pranayama.

What is Bhramari Pranayama?

Bhramari Pranayama is a breathing technique whose name is drawn from the black Indian bee which is called Bhramari. As this form of yoga requires the practitioner to create a humming sound like a bee, it is no surprise that it has been named after one.

This breathing technique can instantly calm the mind. It helps remove any agitation, frustration, and anxiety that the practitioner might experience. As Bhramari yoga is a simple technique, it can be practised almost anywhere and serves as a great stressbuster.

Types of Bhramari Pranayama

Bhramari Pranayama is one of 8 different forms of pranayama (or breathing). When looking at Bhramari Pranayam, there are a number of modern as well as traditional variations via which it can be performed. They include the following.

• Basic Bhramari Pranayama -

This breathing technique requires practitioners to adopt a meditative pose. They are then meant to close their ears with their index fingers such that external noise is removed. Internal vibrations brought forth by the humming sound of this breathing technique are focused on.

 

• Silent Bhramari Pranayama –

This is ordinarily only practised once 5 or 6 rounds of the basic form of Bhramari Pranayama have been completed. Here, practitioners must exhale air without producing any vibrating sound.

• Bhramari with Shanmukhi Mudra –

This breathing technique is ordinarily only attempted once a practitioner is well versed with the basic form of Bhramari Pranayama. This form of breathing seeks to cut off contact between the mind and the five senses such that the mind isn’t distracted by external elements.

Benefits of Bhramari Pranayama

There are several benefits associated with Bhramari yoga. Some of these have been examined below.

• Positive Vibrations

Bhramari Pranayama causes the brain to vibrate. These vibrations send impulses from the cerebral cortex to the hypothalamus which controls the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is responsible for controlling all glands. As a result, the body’s neuro-endocrine system can function in a synchronized manner with the aid of this breathing technique.

• Calm and Peace

Bhramari Pranayama helps calm the mind and provides peace.

• Helps with Conditions

This breathing practice provides relief to those suffering from heart-related issues as well as those who have high blood pressure.

• Mitigates Migraines

Those who practice Bhramari Pranayama on a regular basis are less likely to suffer from migraines.

• Concentration and Memory

This breathing technique improves your ability to concentrate and helps sharpen your memory.

How to Practice Bhramari Pranayama?

The steps featured below explain how the basic form of Bhramari Pranayama is practised.

Step 1. Sit down in a quiet area that is well ventilated and close your eyes.

 

Step 2. Keep your eyes closed for a while and observe the sensations that occur across your body.

 

Step 3. Place your index fingers on your ears. To be precise, they should be placed on the cartilage that lies between your cheek and ear.

 

Step4. Now, you must take a deep breath in. Once you begin to exhale, slowly press down on the cartilage with your index finger. You can either continue to press down on this cartilage or you can press it in and out while making a loud humming sound.

 

Step 5. Low-pitched humming is also acceptable, however, loud sounds are ideal as they produce superior results.

 

Step 6. Breathe in once again and continue to follow this pattern for 3 or 4 more rounds.

 

Beginner’s Tip for Bhramari Pranayama

As a beginner, you might find yourself getting tired while performing this breathing technique. If so, take a break and breathe deeply prior to resuming your practice. Only once you acquire some experience should you increase the time frame during which you make the bee sound.

How Often Should I Do Bhramari Pranayama?

Yoga aficionados can practice Bhramari Pranayama 2 to 5 times a day. That being said, the best time to practice Bhramari Pranayama is early in the morning, ideally prior to sunrise.

Precautions to Take to Perform Bhramari Pranayama

Prior to practising this breathing technique, you should take into account the following considerations.

• Try not to put any pressure on your tragus when you make the humming sound.

• Place your fingers on the tragus and not inside your ear.

• In case you happen to be performing Bhramari with Shanmukhi Mudra make sure you don’t put pressure on your eyeballs or the rest of your face.

• Try not to exceed your exhalation limit while you produce the humming sound.

• Keep your lips slightly parted when you make the humming sounds.

• Do not practice this breathing technique after you have had a heavy meal.

• Avoid making a high pitched humming sound if you are pregnant.

• Do not practice Bhramari Pranayama if you have an ear infection, experience frequent chest pains, or are prone to epileptic fits.

Conclusion

Bhramari Pranayama is beneficial as it helps provide the body with emotional and mental benefits. People who practice this breathing technique will find that it is able to help them boost their confidence and enhance their critical thinking capabilities. The main purpose this breathing technique is employed, however, is to improve one’s overall health. However, health crises can occur at any point in time and if we aren’t prepared to deal with them we could find ourselves exposed to incredibly high medical bills. Therefore, consider purchasing a good health insurance policy, as you never know when you might need it. This policy will provide you with coverage to help offset your medical expenses.