Bhagyashree’s social media is a treasure trove for hacks and wellness tips that cover a range of topics – from health and nutrition to fitness and workouts. Recently, she shared the benefits of chanting Om early morning, claiming that it opens up our chakras and regulates the nervous system.
“OM!! The sound of awakening. The vibrations of Om are the perfect way to open up your nervous system, your chakras, and each neuron in your body. The vibrations of this word sent into the universe bring stability, peace, calm, and unity. So whether it’s the functioning of your own body or the things you manifest, meditate, or aspire to have. This brings everything into sync,” she mentioned in the caption of her Instagram post.
According to the actor, “Jitne lambe arse tak aap Om keh sakte ho, uska direct positive asar aapke heart aur lungs par padhta hai. (Humming Om for as long as you can has a direct and positive effect on your heart and lungs)” Slow breath release improves your heart health, relieves stress, and strengthens vagus nerve functioning – which controls heart, lung, and gut functions. It also awakens your nervous system, she added.
Is it true?
Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, told indianexpress.com that humming the word ‘Om’ can influence the autonomic nervous system, promoting relaxation and calming. This happens because it regulates breathing and increases nitric oxide levels, which have been shown to improve blood flow in the body and reduce blood pressure.
How does it work?
According to her, humming ‘Om’ contributes to relaxation by stimulating the vagus nerve, which runs from the brain throughout the body, influencing heart rate, digestion, and mood. In fact, the steady, rhythmic nature of humming can help quiet the mind. “The vibration from humming helps the body relax, which can be particularly beneficial before sleep as it helps ease the transition into deeper sleep states,” she said.
When compared to silent meditation methods, holistic health and wellness coach Isha Lall shared that the vibration of the ‘Om’ sound has calming effects both physically and mentally, as it is more engaging due to the “sensory feedback it provides”.
However, she warned that “it cannot replace adequate sleep and rest, and thus should be used as a supplementary tool to improve overall functioning”. In case of experiencing anxiety or chronic cases of nervous system dysregulation, they should seek medical supervision instead of resorting to such temporary techniques.
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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.