Bhramari Pranayama (Bee Breath)
Bhramari pranayama is very effective in instantly calming your mind down. It is one of the best breathing exercises to release the mind of agitation, frustration or anxiety and get rid of anger. A simple-to-do technique, can be practiced anywhere at work or home, and an instant option available to de-stress yourself.
This breathing technique derives its name from the black Indian bee called Bhramari. (Bhramari = type of Indian bee; pranayama = breathing technique)
The exhalation in this pranayama resembles the typical humming sound of a bee, which explains why it is named so.
How To Practice Bhramari Pranayama (Bee Breath)
- Sit up straight in a quiet, well ventilated corner with your eyes closed. Keep a gentle smile on your face.
- Place your index fingers on your ears. There is a cartilage between your cheek and ear. Place your index fingers on the cartilage.
- Take a deep breath in and as you breathe out, gently press the cartilage. You can keep the cartilage pressed or press it in and out with your fingers, while making a loud humming sound like a bee.
- You can also make a low-pitched sound but it is a good idea to make a high-pitched one for better results.
- Breathe in again and continue the same pattern for 6-7 times.
Keep your eyes closed for some time. Observe the sensations in the body and the quietness within. You can also practice Bhramari pranayama lying on your back or lying on your right. While practicing the pranayama while lying down, just make the humming sound and do not worry about keeping your index finger on the ear. You can practice the Bee pranayama 3-4 times every day.
Benefits Of Bhramari Pranayama (Bee Breath)
- Instant way to relieve tension, anger and anxiety. It is a very effective breathing technique for people suffering from hypertension as it calms down the agitated mind.
- Gives relief if you’re feeling hot or have a slight headache
- Helps mitigate migraines
- Improves concentration and memory
- Builds confidence
- Helps in reducing blood pressure
Points To Note While Doing Bhramari Pranayama (Bee Breath)
- Ensure that you are not putting your finger inside the ear but on the cartilage.
- Don’t press the cartilage too hard. Gently press and release with the finger.
- While making the humming sound, keep your mouth closed.
- You can also keep your fingers in Shanmukhi mudra (hand position) while doing this pranayama. To sit in Shanmukhi mudra, gently place your thumbs on the ear cartilage, index fingers on the forehead just above the eyebrows, middle fingers on eyes, ring fingers on nostrils and the little fingers on corners of your lips.
Contraindications
None. Once this pranayama is learnt correctly from a yoga teacher, anyone from a child to an elderly person can practice this pranayama. The only pre-requisite is that this pranayama should be done on empty stomach.