Humming while you breathe can boost immune and respiratory health.

Experts are just beginning to uncover the link between respiratory health and immune health, but the connection so far has been surprising. We all know that mindful breathing habits have a positive effect on your well-being, and this is a really easy lifestyle factor you can control when it comes to health and immunity.

According to James Nestor, New York Times bestselling author of “Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art”, one of the easiest things you can do to strengthen your immunity is to hum while you breathe. Why? Sinuses contain and release a boost of nitrous oxide – a molecule that influences immune function. “It’s an amazing molecule that interacts with pathogens,” Nestor says, “that interacts directly with viruses.” In clinical trials, nitric oxide as a therapy has helped restore lung function and boost immune response in patients with severe viral symptoms. It’s an impressive molecule, and it’s naturally available to you just by breathing through your nose!

These benefits of nitric oxide are enhanced even more if you hum; by humming, we increase nitric oxide 15-fold! One study showed that by humming for around an hour, four times per day, participants were able to relieve chronic symptoms such as congestion, facial pressure, and nasal inflammation. Who knew humming could do so much?

So next time you’re feeling not your best, try humming your favorite tune, and give our office a call so we can help you work towards optimal health and immunity!