Bhramari Pranayama: 6 Health Benefits of Doing It Every Morning |

Bhramari Pranayama: Breath of the buzzing bee

Named after the hum of the bee (Bhramari), this practice calms the mind, strengthens the immune system, and balances the body’s energy. The word pranayama comes from two Sanskrit roots: prana meaning “life force” and ayama meaning “expansion” or “control.” Pranayama is the science of modulating and using the life energy within us. Although many equate life force with oxygen, prana encompasses much more. It is the cosmic energy that sustains life and enlivens our physical and spiritual being.
The main purpose of Pranayama is to improve the quality of the prana we draw into our bodies, just as using high-quality fuel optimizes the performance of a machine. Through Pranayama, we enhance the “highest quality” of life force entering our system, allowing our body and mind to function at their highest potential.

How to practice Bhramari Pranayama:

Sit comfortably in Sukhasana, Padmasana, Vajrasana, keeping your spine straight.
Use your thumbs to gently close the ears by pressing on the bridge. Place your index fingers at the beginning of your eyebrows, your middle fingers near your eyes at the base of your nose, your ring fingers on the sides of your nose, and your little fingers on the tip of your nose.
Close your eyes, relax your shoulders, inhale deeply and exhale slowly, making a sound similar to the buzzing of a bee. Exercise for 5-10 minutes, preferably early in the morning.

Benefits of Bhramari Pranayama for health

1. Increases immunity

According to Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, yoga guru and founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa, “The head and neck region contains a significant number of lymph nodes, which play a crucial role in protecting the body from disease. The vibrations produced during Bhramari Pranayama stimulate these lymph nodes, increasing the body’s ability to fight pathogens.”

2. Balances hormones

Bhramari Pranayama stimulates vital glands in the brain such as the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, thyroid and parathyroid glands. These glands are responsible for regulating various hormones that control metabolism, mood, energy levels, and general body functions. Regular use of this technique can help maintain hormonal balance, supporting both physical and emotional well-being.

3. Activates the senses

By calming the nervous system and increasing blood circulation to the sense organs, Bhramari Pranayama improves their functionality. The practice rejuvenates the eyes, ears, nose and skin, sharpening sensory perception and improving reactions to external stimuli. This activation increases awareness and promotes sensory activation.

4. Relieves sinus and headache

Humming increases airflow and circulation in the sinuses, reducing congestion and inflammation. This makes it an excellent remedy for problems related to the nasal sinuses, such as blocked nasal passages, chronic sinusitis, and headaches. It also relieves migraines, vertigo and middle ear problems by equalizing pressure and calming the nervous system.

5. Improves brain function

Bhramari Pranayama improves the blood flow to the brain, providing it with the necessary oxygen and nutrients, which optimizes the overall functioning of the brain. This practice helps regulate blood pressure, improves cognitive abilities such as learning and problem solving, increases focus and concentration, and improves memory retention. Calming the mind and nourishing the brain, it supports mental clarity and emotional balance.

6. Cleanses and balances energy channels (hopes)

According to Yogacharya Akhil Gore, founder of RouteIn Yoga, “In the science of yoga, the body has energy channels known as Nadis through which prana (life force) flows. When these channels are blocked or impure, it leads to physical and emotional imbalances. Bhramari Pranayama purifies the Nadis, allowing Prana to flow freely throughout the body. It improves vitality and balance in our physical, mental and spiritual aspects.”
Bhramari Pranayama thus becomes a comprehensive practice that addresses many aspects of health, from immunity and hormonal regulation to mental clarity and emotional stability. With constant practice, it can help achieve a state of holistic health.