Sound is a universal language that transcends culture, time, and space. Sound healing, or the intentional use of sound vibrations and frequencies as a healing modality, has been used since ancient times to bring us from a place of imbalance to balance, internally, physically, and emotionally, across every culture.
To some, sound healing seems like a lofty practice not rooted in reality, but according to the laws of physics, all sounds have resonance and cause vibrations. This fact alone is enough to imply that sound does more than enter our ears; it has the power to affect our entire being.
Is there any research to back up these claims?
If you examine our cellular makeup under a microscope, every single particle of our physical body is vibrating at varying frequencies. At a physical energetic and cellular level, sound healing can restore our vibration to a state of harmony. A recent study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine found that hour-long sound meditations help to reduce tension, anger, and anxiety, and increase spiritual well-being.
There has also been much fascinating research into the effects of sound meditation on the brain, particularly binaural beats in the treatment of anxiety, depression and sleep disorders. Binaural beats are when two different sounds are played in each ear which the brain integrates. A process known as ‘entrainment’ synchronizes our brainwaves and provides a stable frequency that produces a hypnotic, trance-like rhythm. Simply put, it drops us into deeper, slower brainwave patterns, providing a vehicle for us to access our deeper brainwave states, promoting deep meditation and eliciting the body’s natural healing capacity.
How will sound healing make me feel?
Each experience will be unique as it is dependent upon your physical, emotional, and mental state at that moment, as well as the energy in the room. For most, after a sound bath, you should feel calm and relaxed. You may also feel emotional as the vibrations can release blocked emotions from your energetic field. People report being lulled into a peaceful state and more focused for at least 24 hours afterward.
Can a sound bath be dangerous?
No, a sound bath is not dangerous. The frequencies of the sounds produced during the session are not damaging to your hearing at all.
However, for some people, the sounds produced might create panic or cause sadness. This normally happens as the sounds and vibrations unlock emotions buried deep within your consciousness. So, you don’t need to be worried, just relax and acknowledge the emotions.
How often should you do a sound bath?
Generally, 1-2 sessions per month are recommended. However, if you are experiencing emotional, physical or mental challenges that need to be addressed, then weekly sessions are recommended. Regular sessions, as opposed to occasional ones, offer more long-term benefits.
What should I wear to a sound bath?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Think movie night on the couch. :)
How can I practice elements of sound meditation at home and between sound healing sessions?
The easiest and most natural form of sound meditation is simply meditating in nature. Being in nature, tuning into the sounds, and connecting with the earth realigns us and creates equilibrium in seconds. It re-entrains our brainwaves to a slower, more harmonic, and meditative frequency of 432 Hz—the frequency of nature. So put away your phone, go outside, find a safe and comfortable area, and close your eyes. Tune into the sounds of nature around you, and observe how they impact your inner state.
You can also put on headphones and listen to binaural beats or solfeggio frequencies, particularly 432 Hz or 528 Hz. I welcome you to check out my online sound bath recordings hosted on my website.
