1. There are videos floating around on WhatsApp implying that Bhramari Pranayama (yogic breathing/humming) can protect you from Covid. I would like to poke holes in that theory and hope that a real expert ( @bhalomanush?) will also chime in.

2. The claims start by talking about SaNOtize, a Canadian nasal spray that releases NO (nitric oxide) in your nose and claims to be a "prevention and early-treatment for Covid-19". Then they point out that bhramari increases NO naturally. Thus implying bhramari prevents Covid-19

3. Here is one of the better and more sensible videos in this category: https://www.facebook.com/Yogapoint/posts/4635218896504832

An aunt sent this to me for validation before forwarding. Since I want to definitely positively encourage this behavior, I put in a bunch of effort at researching this.

4. To give credit where it is due, this video doesn't make any ridiculous claims, states the known facts accurately, gives the right disclaimers

I agree with his overall point: bhramari won't hurt you, can reduce stress, can have other health benefits, so why not give it a try?

5. But, people are interpreting this to mean that bhramari can protect you from Covid, and forwarding accordingly. That conclusion has problems which I would like to identify as an exercise in critical thinking. (You remember I teach kids a course on this, right?)

6. The good news first: NO is known to have good antimicrobial properties, and it can actually kill the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Also, it is believed to be quite safe.

Similarly, pranayama is generally beneficial to mental and physical health and is generally safe.

7. And 2 disclaimers: I am not an expert in these areas, so happy to be corrected (please tag the right experts). I will update this thread if that happens. Also, I'm not saying don't do bhramari. It is probably good for you; just don't expect miracles.