Voo-Hum breathing combines deep belly breathing with vocal vibration to stimulate the vagus nerve, a key pathway for activating your parasympathetic ("rest and digest") nervous system.
This variation comes from Jonny Miller of Nervous System Mastery. When we vocalize low tones, the vibrations resonate through the chest and throat, directly stimulating the vagus nerve and inducing feelings of calm. This can be especially helpful if you feel "on edge" or in a constant state of hyperarousal.
When to use it
Try Voo-Hum when you notice:
- you feel jittery, activated, or "on edge"
- you need to discharge stress after something intense
- breath alone doesn't feel like enough
- you want a more embodied way to settle
Before you start
- Find a place where you feel comfortable making sound.
- Sit with feet on the floor, resting comfortably.
- Close your eyes if that feels safe, or keep a soft gaze.
The lower the tone, the more vagal stimulation. Don't strain, just find a pitch that feels comfortable and resonant in your chest.