Did you know that your voice is an incredibly powerful tool, one that can impact not just how you communicate with others, but your health.
Some of the main ways in which humming & vocal toning can support your wellbeing are:
Reduced stress and anxiety: Multiple studies have shown that engaging in vocal toning, humming, and chanting can significantly reduce perceived stress levels and anxiety. The vibrations, rhythmic breathing, and meditative aspects of these practices appear to massage the vagus nerve, which in turn, activates the body's relaxation response and inhibits the release of stress hormones like cortisol.
Improved sleep quality: The low frequencies and droning sounds produced during vocal toning exercises have been found to increase production of melatonin, the sleep hormone. Regular toning practice has been associated with improved sleep onset, quality, and duration.
Pain relief: Some research indicates that certain chanting and toning practices may help alleviate chronic pain by increasing pain tolerance and promoting the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.
Boost immunity & respiratory function: Preliminary studies suggest that the vibrations and breath regulation involved in toning, as well as the release of Nitric Oxide, may help optimise respiratory function and stimulate the vagus nerve, with positive knock-on effects for the immune system.
Enhanced Wellbeing: When we engage in toning & chanting meditation, neurological imaging has shown changes in blood flow to the brain, in addition to other biological markers of increased wellbeing. This practice has been correlated with reduced depression, improved emotional regulation and feelings of peace. Toning also helps to release energy blockages from the body, facilitating the flow of energy.
However, it's important to note there are other reported health benefits too, just some don't have the science to back them up (yet!).
So as you can see, whether you're looking to boost your immune system, overcome anxiety and depression, or simply create more harmony in your life, learning to harness the healing power of your voice is a simple yet profoundly effective practice.
LEARN THESE TECHNIQUES IN PERSON
Join our 'Voice For Wellbeing' group class in Greenwich, London.
Price per session: £11
If the class you'd like to join is booked, email foundinsoundappointments@gmail.com to be added to the waiting list.
BOOKS, SOURCES & STUDIES REFERENCED IN THIS ARTICLE
Visit this blog post to read peer-reviewed scientific papers on this topic.
Lazar et. al - Functional brain mapping of the relaxation response and meditation
Salamon - Sound Therapy Induced Relaxation
Jonathan Goldman - The Humming Effect: Sound Healing for Health & Happiness
Laurel Keyes & Don Campbell - Toning: The Creative & Healing Power of the Voice
Eileen McCusick - Tuning the Human Biofield
Joshua Goldman & Alec Sims - Sound Healing For Beginners
Githa Ben-David - The Ultimate Book on Vocal Sound Healing
Information on vocal toning practices and the science behind it was also taught to me by The British Academy of Sound Therapy, Anne Malone, and Dean Carter during training courses.
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