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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.
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?
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.
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.
