BLOG

WHAT IS A SOUND BATH?

A sound bath is a form of meditation that uses a combination of unique instruments played in a relaxing, soothing way to encourage peace, stillness and calm throughout the mind and body. 

WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF SOUND HEALING?

Sound healing traces its roots back to ancient civilizations such as Greece, Egypt, and India. These societies Ed believed in the transformative healing power of sound and used methods such as singing bowls, chanting and tuning forks to promote a harmonious environment for the body to heal itself. In these modern times, more and more people are embracing the ancient traditions and recognising the healing benefits of ancient knowledge. 

WHAT DOES A SOUND BATH SESSION INVOLVE?

Sound Baths occur in a quiet room, with dim lighting and no distractions. You can sit  or lie down during the experience – just make sure you are comfortable enough for full relaxation and able to receive the healing vibrations. Guided imagery, deep breathing, visualisation and focusing on positive thoughts are some of the techniques that may be incorporated during sessions. The musical instruments and sounds used by sound therapists can vary widely in sound bath sessions. Tuning forks, Tibetan singing bowls, chimes, gongs, Crystal singing bowls, bells, drums, cymbals and rain sticks are just some of the instruments used. Some use a singular instrument while others combine the sounds from different instruments to create complex and mesmerising soundscapes to best affect your  central nervous system and brain wave activity. Sound baths can occur in groups or individually.

WHAT DO I NEED FOR SOUND BATHING?

You want to be as comfortable as possible, so consider wearing soft and loose or stretchy. Avoid wearing anything too tight or constructing, a studio will provide mats, blankets and potentially eye pillows.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SOUND BATHING?

The sound waves help relax muscles, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. When you listen to soothing sounds, you enter a state of relaxation called alpha brain wave activity. Alpha waves are associated with deep concentration and creativity. Beta waves are minimised during this state, which means you become less aware of the external stimuli. You may feel relaxed, focused and even sleepy. 

The practice of sound healing has been shown to have several benefits, including:

• increased relaxation
• a more positive outlook
• a more accessible meditative state
• reduced or healed physical pain
• heightened consciousness
• reduced stress
• lessened exhaustion
• increased energy levels

Final notes: You might feel different mental, emotional, and physical sensations throughout the session. It could be like floating on a cloud, feeling peaceful, happy, energised or relaxed. It is rare but also possible to feel anxious, sad, angry or confused. These feelings will eventually pass but you are encouraged to embrace whatever feeling you may experience. It is highly recommend to hydrate after a sound bath experience.  

Written and published by The Scandi Yogi

September 2023