So Hum

Remembering to Breathe consciously, using So Hum

A few teachers have shared this very simple yet very powerful exercise with the breath to me over the years.

So Hum

If you listen very closely to your breath when you breathe through your nose you will hear the sound So Hum.

As you listen to the breath connect in your mind the words So Hum.

If you are new to focussing on the breath begin by lying down on the floor with your head supported. (If your lower back troubles you when lying flat place a pillow or rolled blanket under your knees). Adjust yourself until you become comfortable.

Prepare by beginning to follow the breath, breathing in through the nose and breathing out through the nose. Allow the breath to flow softly, steadily, smoothly and evenly.

Now start to listen to the breath. Hear the sound the breath makes as you breathe in and as you breathe out.

Can you hear ‘So Hum’ being sounded?

Now begin in your mind’s eye, while you are connecting with your breath, repeating ‘So Hum’,

So on the inhalation and Hum on the exhalation,

So on the inhalation and Hum on the exhalation,

So on the inhalation and Hum on the exhalation.

Continually repeat for as many cycles of breath as you can follow.

As you continue to practice breathing this way observe how this exercise is affecting the rest of the body - physically, emotionally and mentally.

I have found this simple little exercise to help calm me in the many of life’s situations that pull me off centre.