Sore throat involves local inflammation and often nervous system tension from swallowing difficulty and anxiety. Gentle extended exhale breathing combined with throat relaxation helps reduce both the inflammation and the protective muscle tension that exacerbate pain. The improved circulation from parasympathetic activation also supports healing.
Many people unconsciously tense their throat muscles during illness, which worsens pain and restricts healing. Conscious throat relaxation during breathing exercises relieves this tension and allows the body's healing processes to work more effectively.
The vibration from humming (a form of extended exhale breathing) is particularly soothing for sore throats and may provide additional healing benefits. Gentle humming combined with extended exhale breathing is often more effective than plain extended exhale.