Nasal Breathing and Humming:The Power of Nitric Oxide:
- robertbrettschneid3
- Apr 13
- 2 min read
What Is Nitric Oxide?
Nitric oxide (NO) is a vital, naturally occurring gas in the human body that serves as a critical signaling molecule, deeply involved in regulating blood flow, supporting immune function, and enabling proper lung and respiratory performance. It works by helping blood vessels relax and widen a process known as vasodilation which improves circulation and oxygen delivery throughout the body.
What started as research into how nitroglycerin relaxes smooth muscle eventually led scientists to a stunning realization: nitric oxide (NO) was the mysterious "endothelium-derived relaxing factor" (EDRF) responsible for signaling blood vessel relaxation. This breakthrough discovery reshaped our understanding of cardiovascular biology and laid the foundation for new treatments for conditions like hypertension, heart disease, and more. The immense impact of this work was recognized with the 1998 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, awarded to Robert F. Furchgott, et al.
Nasal Breathing vs Mouth Breathing
Ever catch yourself breathing through your mouth without even thinking about it? We all do it sometimes. But what if I told you that how you breathe and specifically through your nose can have a real impact on how your body heals, fights off illness, and even how calm or energized you feel?
By inhaling through the nose, the body benefits from endogenous NO, which supports immunity, inflammation control, and efficient lung function. Therefore, preserving and promoting nasal breathing can significantly aid in overall healing and respiratory well-being, what’s especially fascinating is this: the highest concentration of NO in the human body is found in the nasal passages and sinuses.
The Surprising Power of Humming
How does it work? The gentle vibrations of humming help air flow between your sinuses and nasal cavity, boosting nitric oxide levels—a compound that supports immune function and reduces inflammation.
Research has shown that nitric oxide levels can rise up to 15 times higher during humming compared to quiet exhalation. This is likely due to the vibration-induced airflow between the sinuses and the nasal cavity, which boosts circulation and promotes better sinus drainage.
The benefits go far beyond clearer sinuses.
Humming has been shown to improve pulmonary function, making it a simple yet effective way to support respiratory health. It also promotes a state of parasympathetic dominance commonly known as the “rest-and-digest” mode which helps lower heart rate and blood pressure, improve cognition, and reduce stress. These calming effects are especially noticeable when humming is combined with extended exhalation and a mindful awareness of breath, a technique often used in yoga.
Emotionally, humming helps quiet the Limbic system the part of the brain involved in emotions like fear, anger, and desire. This calming effect has been observed in practices like chanting “OM,” which shares similar resonant qualities with humming. For those dealing with chronic sinus issues, stress, or even conditions like tinnitus, humming may offer gentle relief.
Here is a non-affiliate link to guide "OM" humming.
Gestalt Movement & Myotherapy
Book text 0433 073 558
