https://youtu.be/gzeYfYZYj8k
Energetics of Sound Therapy.
Sound therapy, or sound healing, flew into the ‘new age’ healing scene in recent years, but its roots are ancient. Falling within the realm of ‘vibrational medicine,’ sound therapy focuses on musical notes, voices, singing bowls, and the like to create specific vibrations that heal an individual on a cellular level.
Some major social channels have spread the good word on sound baths, often performed with gongs. The healing method tends to be woven in with the likes of cacao ceremonies, Yin yoga classes, or following a meditation session.
Sound therapy extends beyond the usual relaxation elicited by a chill soundtrack, such as the general nature sounds played during a fair amount of meditation classes. Sound therapy stimulates healing in an energetic sense.
This is due, in part, to the vibrational elements of the soundwaves created by the instruments in use. With the careful use of audio tones and vibrational frequencies, sound can heal the body, mind, and spirit immensely. A few of the potential benefits include.
1. Reconstruction of damaged tissues.
2. Lessen stress.
3. Heighten awareness.
4. Raise consciousness.
5. Improve sleeping patterns.
6. Potent transformation.
7. Recalibrate well-being.
8. Lower heart rate.
9. Soothe brain-waves.
10. Slow breathing rates.
How does this all happen? It’s hardly a magic trick, nor a placebo effect. Instead, sound healing builds upon the idea of “good vibes,” but with scientific proof to back up its claims. The main idea presented in sound healing relates to the cause of illness, disease, and stress being linked to a lowered frequency vibrating in an individual.
Some might call this “bad vibes,” but it runs much deeper. To raise one’s vibration, many routes present themselves. Sound healing is one of many methods that can be utilized to increase one’s vibrations, thereby healing symptoms of illness or disease.
The Science of Sound.
In July of 2018, the International Journal of Social Work and Human Services Practice shared information from a study exploring the effects of sound vibrations on consciousness, detailed by Meera Raghu. What was found in the study? Well, it would seem that the “use of musical notes and musical intervals” produce “harmonious sound vibrations” which then connect to the chakras, a subtle body energy system, as well as the endocrine system. From such connections, a subtle level of healing begins and leads to physical, mental, and emotional ripples.
In the same study, “clear geometric patterns” were seen vividly in an individual when the notes played were “harmonious and pleasant.” Sound and music are more than just a reason to dance, but act as a reason to expand society’s definition of what can be defined as a ‘therapy.’
Varying Practices.
All of these “geometric patterns” and healing magic sounds pretty nice. How might you practice sound therapy, though?
Here are a couple of popular options, many of which are readily shared in most major cities.
1. Gong Bath. Also called a gong meditation, a gong bath is a deeply relaxing experience. Reclining down on your back, with your head near to the gong so that the soundwaves can travel over the crown of your head first, you remain laying down for the entire session. The vibrations wash over you, and can sometimes be felt physically, thus the use of the term ‘bath.’ The instructor, whoever is playing the gong, will guide you through your session. At first, the gong playing is rather subtle, but it will grow to be louder over time, but never to an overwhelming point.
2. Binaural Beats. For this method, you can hop onto your music streaming platform or peruse the many options shared on YouTube. When listening, ensure you have your headphones in, as binaural beats play different frequencies in either ear. But you will interpret the different tones to be the same. A lot of frequency options exist, each with a different purpose. Some beats intend to soothe, others to energize. Listen to binaural beats in a quiet space, with your eyes closed if that’s comfortable for you, and allow yourself to arrive in some semblance of a meditative state.
3. Tibetan Singing Bowls. With roots in Tibetan culture, singing bowls appear as metal or crystal quartz most of the time. To make the bowl sing, a felt-tipped mallet swirls around its edges. You can tap the side of the bowl, as well, to produce a more potent vibration and sound.
4. Kirtan. A form of yogic chanting, Kirtan typically features many instruments and a collective group of singers. By repeating ancient mantras, specific energies and deities can be called into a space and aid in healing or cultivating a particular essence. In Sanskrit, Kirtan means “narrating” or “reciting.” The repetition of the songs and mantras is profoundly peaceful and healing. Chanting without music involved is also a standard method for sound healing.
