Back on Instagram with her Monday motivation, Shilpa Shetty shared what she called a ‘Ram Baan Ilaaj’ for multiple health issues, which is Bhramari Pranayama, also known as the humming bee breath.
What is Bhramari Pranayama?
Bhramari is derived from the Sanskrit word “bee,” and pranayama is formed from two words: “prana,” which translates to “breath,” and “ayama,” which means “control” or “extension.” In yoga, breathwork practices have long been stressed for their multiple health benefits.
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Bhramari Pranayama is no different. It helps revitalise the body by improving the quality of prana (breath) that enters our system. It’s named after the humming sound of a bee, which is the sound produced as we exhale. The breathing technique helps calm the mind and allows the body to feel relaxed.
Shilpa Shetty performs Bhramari Pranayama
Sitting in a sukhasana (easy pose), Shilpa instructed, “Close your ears and your eyes and shut yourself from the outside world. Look within, touch your tongue to the upper palate, take a deep breath in, and do the humming sound.”
It is important to note that you start by closing your earlids with your thumb. Don’t place them inside the ear but on the cartilage. Avoid putting too much pressure on it. Shut your eyes, placing your index finger above the brows and the other fingers over your eyes. Keep your mouth closed and breathe through your nose.
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Health benefits of Bhramari Pranayama
Shilpa said, “This is one of the most powerful pranayamas. It releases neurotransmitters, which help regulate emotions, reduces anxiety, alleviates depression, and also helps with Alzheimer’s.”
She also added, “Bhramari also increases the production of nitric oxide and the flow of oxygen to the brain. It improves blood circulation, regulates blood pressure, reduces inflammation, which can also help patients suffering from arthritis. I consider it a Ram Baan Ilaaj (treatment). Do it for 11 rounds or more.”
Additionally, Bhramari Pranayama also helps boost immunity by stimulating lymph nodes, which improve the body’s ability to fight infections. The humming breath increases airflow, which can provide relief from sinusitis and headaches.
FAQs on Bhramari Pranayama
1. What is Bhramari Pranayama?
Bhramari Pranayama, also known as humming bee breath, is a yoga breathing technique derived from Sanskrit terms meaning "bee" and "breath control." It produces a calming hum during exhalation, promoting relaxation.
2. What are the health benefits of Bhramari Pranayama?
Bhramari Pranayama helps regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, alleviate depression, increase nitric oxide production, improve oxygen flow to the brain, enhance blood circulation, and reduce inflammation, aiding conditions like arthritis.
3. How does Bhramari Pranayama boost immunity?
This breathing technique stimulates lymph nodes, improving the body's ability to fight infections. The increased airflow can also provide relief from sinusitis and headaches.
4. What precautions should be taken while performing Bhramari Pranayama
Ensure thumbs are placed on the ear cartilage, not inside the ears. Avoid excessive pressure. Close eyes with the index finger above brows and other fingers over eyes, keeping the mouth closed and breathing through the nose.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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