A 2022 poll conducted by Harris in collaboration with the American Psychological Association (APA) revealed that 27 percent of American adults find themselves grappling with stress levels so high that they struggle to function. What’s more interesting is the benefits of humming in calming down your stress and anxiety.
If you identify with that 27 percent, you’ve likely explored various avenues in search of relief from stress and anxiety.
Techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and even the simple act of sighing have all been proven effective in promoting a sense of calm.
However, they might feel like old news, given their widespread adoption in recent years. But what if there was an unconventional approach to stress reduction that offered a fresh perspective?
Humming—the subtle act of producing a gentle, continuous sound with your voice.
While humming might seem inconspicuous and even mundane, emerging research suggests that it possesses a remarkable capacity to induce a state of calm and relaxation.
In fact, a 2022 study published in the International Journal of Yoga explored the effects of the meditation chant “om,” which concludes with a soothing humming sound.
The results indicated that this practice appeared to promote relaxation and provide a sense of tranquility, shedding light on the therapeutic potential of humming.
Study Suggests Stress Boosting Benefits Of Humming
Moreover, a small pilot study conducted in 2023 delved deeper into the stress-reducing attributes of humming. This study aimed to understand the impact of various activities on heart rate variability (HRV), a key indicator of stress levels.
The activities examined included Bhramari, a yoga breathing technique that mimics the gentle buzz of bees through humming, physical activity, emotional stress, and sleep.
Astonishingly, the findings revealed that people experienced the lowest levels of stress while engaged in humming, surpassing even the state of relaxation achieved during sleep.
The idea that humming, a seemingly unassuming practice, could hold the key to stress reduction is intriguing and warrants further exploration. At a time when individuals are increasingly seeking innovative approaches to managing stress, this uncharted territory offers a promising avenue.
The 2022 study focusing on the meditation chant “om” is particularly illuminating. “Om” has long been associated with spiritual and meditative practices, and its conclusion with a humming sound appears to contribute significantly to its relaxation-inducing properties.
The study underscores the value of incorporating such practices into daily routines to combat stress effectively.
The 2023 pilot study examining heart rate variability during various activities provides even more compelling evidence.
While it is no surprise that physical activity and emotional stress can influence HRV, the revelation that humming surpasses even sleep in terms of stress reduction is remarkable.
This finding not only piques curiosity but also prompts us to consider the profound impact that a simple humming practice might have on our overall well-being.
It is essential to recognize that the power of humming lies in its simplicity. Unlike more elaborate stress reduction techniques, humming can be effortlessly integrated into daily life.
Whether it’s a soft hum during a moment of solitude or a brief humming exercise during a hectic day, this practice holds the potential to provide instant relief from stress and anxiety.
In conclusion, the concept of using humming as a tool to combat stress and anxiety challenges conventional wisdom but is supported by emerging research.
In a world where stress levels continue to soar, exploring unconventional yet effective methods like humming is a step toward better mental and emotional well-being.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, perhaps the soothing power of humming can offer a simple and accessible remedy for the relentless demands of our time.