The Benefits of “Humming” in Mindfulness and Meditation

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The Anchoring and Centering Method of “Humming”

An unusual but extremely effective technique for anchoring and centering your thoughts in mindfulness and meditation is the simple act of “humming”.

The purpose of humming in mindfulness and meditation is employed as a technique to quiet the mind and allow you to focus your spiritual energy. This focus of spiritual energy is usually targeted to the realm of spiritual consciousness you wish to attain during the meditation process.

The Hum (as it is called in ‘The7Realms) is often used in different cultures as an initial opening and a final closing in a particular meditation practice. It is used in very much the same way in ‘The7Realms’.

The Meaning of Hum, To Hum, or Humming

The term “hum” can be used in a variety of meanings depending on the context in which it is used.

1. As a noun, “hum” can refer to a low, continuous sound, often produced by machinery, engines, or other vibrating sources.
2. As a verb, “hum” can mean to make a low, continuous sound or to produce a steady, murmuring noise. People may hum a tune, and bees can hum as they fly.
3. In a metaphorical sense, “hum” can describe a state of busyness or activity, as in “the city was alive and vibrant with the hum of life.”
4. In certain contexts, “hum” can also refer to a sound made by people when they are thinking or pondering something. For example, someone might hum in thought while trying to remember something.

The Spiritual Significance of “Humming”

In some spiritual and meditative practices, humming or chanting specific sounds or mantras is used as a way to focus the mind, create a calming atmosphere, and induce a meditative state.

1. In Hinduism, there’s a practice known as “Om” or “Aum” chanting, where the sacred sound “Om” is repeated to aid in meditation and connect with the divine.
2. Buddhist monks may engage in chanting, including the repetition of sutras or mantras, to achieve a state of mindfulness and enlightenment.
3. Some New Age and holistic wellness practices incorporate humming or toning as a form of vibrational healing or energy work.
4. In Sufi Islamic traditions, there are practices of chanting and remembrance, often accompanied by repetitive vocal sounds, to attain spiritual connection and inner peace.

The specific spiritual significance and practices associated with humming differs depending on cultures and belief systems.

Humming in Mindfulness and Meditation

Humming and toning are techniques used in meditation and mindfulness practices to enhance focus, relaxation, and the overall meditative experience. These techniques involve producing specific vocal sounds or vibrations, which can have many benefits. For instance:

1. Centering and Grounding: Humming or toning specific sounds can help individuals ground themselves in the present moment. The act of producing these vibrations can provide a physical anchor for meditation, making it easier to stay focused and centered.
2. Calming the Mind: The gentle, continuous sound of humming or toning can have a soothing effect on the mind. It can reduce mental chatter and distractions, making it easier to enter a state of calm and relaxation.
3. Vibrational Healing: Some believe that specific sound frequencies and vibrations can have a healing effect on the body and mind. By humming or toning certain sounds, individuals aim to promote balance and harmony within themselves.
4. Chakra Balancing: In practices such as yoga and certain forms of meditation, humming and toning may be used to balance and align the body’s energy centers, known as chakras. Different vocal sounds are associated with specific chakras, and by producing these sounds, practitioners aim to balance their energy flow.
5. Enhanced Breath Awareness: Humming and toning often involve controlling the breath and producing sounds with intention. This can deepen one’s awareness of their breath and encourage conscious, rhythmic breathing, which is a fundamental aspect of many meditation techniques.

The Use of Humming in ‘The7Realms’ Mindfulness and Meditation Practice is as follows:

1. Find a Quiet Space: Choose a quiet and comfortable place where you can meditate without interruptions.
2. Sit Comfortably: Sit in a comfortable position with your back straight. You can also practice these techniques while lying down if that is more comfortable for you.
3. Close Your Eyes: Close your eyes to minimize external distractions.
4. Focus on Your Breath: Begin by focusing on your natural breath for a few moments to settle into the meditation.
5. Start Humming or Toning: In “The7Realms” we begin with a low, under-the-breath but purposeful sound… Hummm. You can choose a sound or mantra that resonates with you. You can use traditional sounds like “Om” or any sound that feels soothing and calming to you. Start producing the sound gently and continuously.
6. Concentrate on the Vibration: Pay close attention to the physical sensation of the sound as you produce it. Feel the vibrations in your body.
7. Maintain Your Focus: Continue humming or toning for the duration of your meditation session. If your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to the sound and the vibrations.
8. Conclude Mindfully: When you’re ready to transition to the next phase of ‘The7Realms’ meditation, gradually reduce the sound until it fades away. Sit quietly for a few moments before opening your eyes and resuming the next step.

Remember the effectiveness of humming and toning in meditation and mindfulness practice depends on your plans for your meditative and transcendtal experience. This technique is used in the opening and closing of the formal Mindfulness and Meditation Practices of ‘The7Realms’.

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