Here's the Science Bit:

Here is some of the vast scientific research into the neurophysiological and emotional benefits of voice-based practices

• Studies show that humming, deep exhalation, and vocal toning stimulate the vagus nerve, shifting the body out of “fight-or-flight” and into rest-and-digest. Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory.
• Controlled breathing (especially with auditory components) can reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, within moments; Practices like chanting or sighing synchronise brain waves and promote parasympathetic dominance, which restores calm. Jerath et al. (2006). Physiology of long pranayamic breathing.
• Studies in music therapy and expressive arts show that short vocalisation can improve emotional regulation, especially in women. Gold, C., Voracek, M., & Wigram, T. (2004). Effects of music therapy for women with trauma.
• Research into micro-interventions (short, focused practices) shows that even one minute of mindfulness or somatic regulation can significantly reduce distress and improve focus. Zeidan et al. (2010). Mindfulness meditation improves cognition.​

• Voiced exhalation and vocal vibration (like humming, toning, sighing) increase vagal tone and heart rate variability, supporting parasympathetic dominance and emotional stability.  Kroeger, D., et al. (2018). Vocalizations and their effect on vagal tone.
• ​Singing improves mood, reduces anxiety, and supports social and emotional wellbeing, especially for women and those recovering from trauma.  Fancourt, D. & Finn, S. (2019). What is the evidence on the role of the arts in improving health and well-being? WHO report.
• OM chanting and similar vocal practices stimulate the vagus nerve and calm the nervous system by increasing parasympathetic activity.  Telles, S., & Singh, N. (2013). Science of Om: Effects of Om chanting on the brain and autonomic nervous system.
• Across cultures, the voice is used as a healing tool—through moaning, crying, singing, chanting—because sound is an instinctive way to regulate the nervous system and release trauma.  Koen, B. D., & Barz, G. (2008). The Oxford Handbook of Medical Ethnomusicology.
• Regular vocal practice leads to positive brain changes linked to emotional regulation, resilience, and voice-body connection.  Schlaug, G., Marchina, S., & Norton, A. (2010). Neuroplasticity in singers: Brain imaging studies.
• Nonverbal vocalisations—like sighs, cries, or laughter—convey and release emotion more directly than words. Vocal sound is a deeply embodied emotional expression.  ​Sauter, D. A., Eisner, F., Ekman, P., & Scott, S. K. (2010). Cross-cultural recognition of basic emotions through nonverbal vocalizations.

​These studies underscore the importance of incorporating diverse, multimodal approaches to mental health care, such as the VagalVox™ Method, which combines vocal practices with somatic and emotional regulation techniques.