brahmari

Brahmari pranayama, commonly called bee breath, is a yogic breathing technique used to calm the mind and enhance concentration. The term Brahmari comes from Sanskrit and refers to the buzzing sound produced during exhalation, often described as a resonant vibration similar to a bee. Practitioners associate the sound with a focus on inward awareness and reduced mental noise.

Technique

In a comfortable seated position with a straight spine, eyes closed, begin with a few relaxed breaths. Inhale slowly through the nose, then exhale through the nose while producing a deep, sustained humming sound in the throat. The mouth remains closed, and the vocal cords are lightly constricted to create the buzz. Some practitioners place the index fingers gently over the ears to muffle external sound and enhance internal resonance. Keep the body relaxed and breath steady, and repeat for several rounds before returning to normal breathing.

Variations

There are minor variations in emphasis and length of the cycles. Some approaches vary the pitch of the hum or the duration of inhalations and exhalations. The core element is the audible vibration created by the glottis during exhalation, with attention often directed to the head or forehead region for a calming effect.

Benefits and cautions

Brahmari is traditionally believed to calm the nervous system, reduce stress and anxiety, improve concentration, and aid sleep. Scientific evidence for specific physiological benefits is limited, and it should not replace medical treatment. Practitioners with throat or ear conditions, dizziness, or other health concerns should practice cautiously or consult a qualified instructor. As with other pranayama, it is generally recommended to avoid forced breathing and to learn under proper guidance.

In practice, brahmari is commonly included in beginner-friendly yoga or pranayama sequences as a gentle, resonance-focused breathing exercise.