If you are unfamiliar with sound baths, it can be tempting to dismiss them as just another wellness and health trend. After all, how can sound be healing?
However, there is much to be gained from incorporating this ancient practice into your holistic wellness routine. Whether you have tried it before, or are a complete newbie to the world of sound baths, Well Citizen has rounded up the facts, so that you can decide whether it is a good fit for you.
What is a sound bath?
At the most basic level, sound baths are no different than any other meditative practice. Designed to calm and quiet the mind, sound baths use instruments like singing bowls, chimes, tuning forks, gongs, and drums to help the body relax.
Unlike most music, however, there is no set melody or pattern for the brain to grasp onto. A typical guided sound bath involves participants lying on their back, while a guild leads them through breathing exercises and chants.
The idea is to use the vibrations from the instruments to achieve a more balanced energy within the body.
What are the benefits?
While there aren’t many studies that study the effects of sound baths, specifically, there are ample amounts of research on the benefits of both meditation and music. Basic meditation has been shown to help with insomnia, anxiety, and depression, as well as improve digestion and lowering blood pressure.
Likewise, music has also been shown to be a powerful tool in improving your mood, lessening anxiety, and assisting in information retention.
When the two are combined in a sound bath, participants report feeling deep relaxation, and better control of their own emotions.
How to try it
If this is your first time trying a sound bath, we highly recommend attending a class led by a professional guide. Most professional guides agree that the quality of the instruments makes a huge difference to the overall experience.
A typical class will last about 45 minutes to an hour. That said it is also possible to find instructors that combine sound bath practices with more traditional yoga. After a yoga class, participants will be led on a 15 minute sound bath experience to clear the mind.
If you live in an area where you cannot find a class, there are also numerous online options available! A quick search on YouTube or Spotify will offer you a variety of sound bath playlists to incorporate into your home practice.
Can I do my own sound baths?
Of course, you can!
We recommend starting by making yourself as comfortable as possible. Choose comfortable clothes, and dim the lights to make your space inviting. If you are new to singing bowls, start simply, by striking the bowl, and gently running the mallet around the rim. Keep a clear intention in your mind, and focus on breathing deeply. A reminder that a singing bowl is just like any other instrument – it takes practice to play it the way you want to. Keep experimenting and you will find the method that works best for you.
Have you ever tried a sound bath? Share your experience with us in the comments below.
