In this episode, we explore Bhramari Pranayama—also known as humming or “bee breath”—and why it’s such a powerful tool for calming the nervous system.

Joined by Therapist and yoga teacher Kristen Simons, weunpack how breath acts as a bridge between the physical body and emotional experience—especially when you’re overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in your head.

Because here’s the truth: you can’t always think your wayout of how you feel.

But you can change your state through the body.

We talk about:

• Why humming activates the parasympathetic nervous system
• How humming exists throughout the animal world and is crucial for creating a sense of safety
• The limits of talk therapy (and where somatic work comes in)
• Why relaxation is a skill-not a personality trait
• How breath practices bridge the gap between our logical brain and out emotional center to create calm

This is Part 1 of a two-part series on Bhramari Pranayama.

In Part 2, we’ll break down exactly how to practice it.

Guest Host Kristen Simons, LCPC, PMH-C, RYT is a licensed therapist, certified perinatal mental health specialist, yoga teacher, and mom of two.

She is the founder of Embodied Healing Counseling & Yoga in Evanston, where she integrates psychotherapy, yoga therapy, and nervous system practices to support women navigating high-functioning anxiety, burnout, and the identity shifts of motherhood. Outside of her professional work, Kristen loves spending time with her family and tending to her many—many-houseplants.

www.embodiedhealingtherapist.com

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