Thank you all who watched the “Professionals of the Roundtable” podcast. During the last third of the podcast, I demonstrated voice and breath work techniques.

One of my favorite voice techniques is toning the vowels. In some traditions, each of the vowels corresponds to a chakra. But each tradition has a different idea about which vowel goes with a particular chakra. I find that the sound goes to where it’s most needed. Since there are only 5 vowels, some other simple sounds are incorporated. On the podcast, I demonstrated working with the Vedic tradition.

· Root chakra consonant “u” as in “cup”, color-red

· Sacral chakra “U” as in “you”, color-orange

· Solar plexus chakra “O” as in “Ohh”, color-yellow

· Heart chakra “Ahh”, color-green

· Throat chakra “I” as in “eye”, color-blue

· 3rd eye chakra “A”, like “may”, color-indigo

· Crown chakra “E”, like “tee”, color-purple

An easy way to tone vowels is to set the timer on your phone for 30 seconds. Make a mental note of how you feel before you start. Sound each vowel for 30 seconds starting at the root chakra going up to the crown. Then go back down, crown to the root. It only takes 7 minutes to complete. Visualize the sound going deep into the chakra while toning them. Did you notice any change in how you feel?

Some traditions also have specific colors associated with chakras which I have listed above. But, I think each chakra contains all the colors and at any given moment, one color is dominant. Visualizing a color going into the chakra as you tone is a fun way to explore both together.

Another fantastic vocal technique is humming. Sound waves will resonate through your whole nasal cavity. It’s amazingly effective at clearing the mind and creating calm. Start by humming your favorite song, the vowels, or creating your own tune. Try it for at least 5 minutes.

BREATH WORK

Finally, we come to my favorite breath work pattern. It’s called “the relaxation breath” or the 4-7-8 breath. It’s super simple and an excellent way to calm your nerves and get rid of stress. Start by inhaling deeply for a count of four. Hold your breath for a count of seven. Exhale slowly and smoothly for a count of eight. I usually wait for a count of two before I repeat the pattern 10 to 12 times. Many people experience immediate relaxation. My students have tried using it at work and report amazing results.

I hope these voice and breathing tips help you on your healing journey. Thanks for listening to the podcast.