Science Spotlight: The Case for Humming (yes, humming)
It sounds almost too simple, but humming is strategic physiology. A minute or two of gentle hum creates a soothing vibration along vagal pathways and can increase nasal nitric oxide which supports airflow and a calmer state. The subjective effect most people report? That big exhale feeling without needing a yoga mat or a quiet room.
In leadership settings, I pair humming with a single sentence of emotional honesty: “I’m feeling ___, and thats ok.” The combo lowers intensity without bypassing reality. The result is what I want for every team: meeting yourself where you are so you can evolve into clearer thinking, kinder delivery, and renewed focus.
Where it shines:
Between stacked meetings (reset your tone before you walk in)
After tough feedback (recover your center, then respond)
Pre-sleep or on the commute home (downshift so your evening isn’t a debrief)
We’ll explore this on Day 2 of my free 3-Day Nervous System Reset (Sept...
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