Strap in, here's a big scientific dump - on the benefits of humming: My favourite hack = increases nitric oxide production by 15x = relaxing + improved athletic performance. Physiological Benefits - Increases nitric oxide production: - Humming increases nasal nitric oxide production by up to 15-fold compared to quiet exhalation (Weitzberg & Lundberg, 2002). - Nitric oxide has antimicrobial properties and improves oxygen uptake (Lundberg et al., 2003). - - Improves respiratory function: - Enhances sinus ventilation and clearance (Maniscalco et al., 2003). - May help prevent and treat chronic rhinosinusitis (Eby, 2006). - - Affects cardiovascular system: - Lowers heart rate and blood pressure (Bhimani et al., 2011). - Improves heart rate variability, indicating better stress resilience (Trivedi et al., 2023). - - Stimulates the vagus nerve: - Activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation (Chang et al., 2021). - May improve vagal tone, benefiting overall health (Gerritsen & Band, 2018). Neurological and Cognitive Effects - Alters brain activity: - Increases theta wave activity, associated with relaxation and improved cognition (Kuppusamy et al., 2023). - May enhance alpha wave activity, linked to creativity and reduced anxiety (Vialatte et al., 2009). - _ - Potential cognitive benefits: - Improved cognitive control and response inhibition (Pramanik et al., 2010). - Enhanced attention and memory (Joshi et al., 2018). Psychological and Emotional Benefits - Stress reduction: - Significantly lowers stress index compared to other activities, including sleep (Trivedi et al., 2023). - Activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation (Chang et al., 2021). - Mood enhancement: - May reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety (Kanchibhotla et al., 2020). - Promotes overall sense of well-being (Goldman & Goldman, 2017). Practical Applications Potential therapeutic use: