What is Sound Healing?
Sound healing is not a new form at all as it dates back thousands of years. Our ancestors embraced sound as the very essence of life itself. Ancient peoples embraced sound as the very essence of life and they understood what modern science is now discovering. Even Pythagoras, often considered the Godfather of Modern Sound Medicine, taught his students to use sound and music to soothe the spirit, release worry, fear and anger, and enhance joy and happiness.
He explained how sound functions in relation to the universe, “…each and every atom produces a particular sound on account of its movement, its rhythm or vibration. All these sounds and vibrations form a universal harmony in which each element, while having its own function and character, contribute to the whole.” Our own body is a microcosm of that celestial symphony. Ancient cultures looked upon disease as a musical issue, therefore music and sound was the natural treatment, restoring harmony to the body, mind and spirit.
Tones themselves correspond with and affect
specific areas of the body. The ancients understood that
a simple sound could reorganize the body’s structure. Sounds that are harmonious, activate the body and create healing.
-Barbara Marciniak
Sound can shift frequencies from low energy of guilt and fear to higher vibrations of love and joy. Sound healing is the use of sacred instruments or voice to release energetic blockages inducing a state of ease and harmony in the body. Sound healing can help you clear energetic blockages and thus facilitate healing on a physical and mental level. Some of the benefits of sound include:
- lower stress levels
- fewer mood swings
- lower blood pressure
- lower cholesterol
- improved sleep
- ease PTSD
- reduction of pain
- energy balance
- relaxation
- enhance meditation
Over the years, sound healing has also been used to treat a number of conditions including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, autism, and dementia. Our body is like an instrument that can easily be tuned to come back into alignment with well-being. By listening and feeling the vibrations, your brainwaves and nerves can gradually release any stress and anxieties, thus clearing your mind and boosting your immunity.
Difference Between Private Session and Group Sound Bath
I am often asked what the difference is between an integral sound healing session and a group sound bath. These may seem similar but in fact they are quite different but equally beneficial.
A simple explanation is that an integral sound healing session is intentional and tailored to the individual receiving the session. The focus is on the client’s specific needs in the body, mind and spirit. One can liken it to a sound “massage” experience.
Each session that I provide is tailored to you specifically with your mind, body, and spirit needs in mind. Each session comprises of sound healing, intuitive guidance, silent integration and suggestions for ongoing practice (if any). As you rest, relax, rejuvenate and revitalize your body, you will find personal transformation with the support you receive.
A sound bath is more of a musical performance which the practitioner plays singing bowls, gongs, and other instruments bathing you in sound waves. I typically use a theme in my sound baths and introduce meditation, chanting, singing or poetry to enhance the theme. It can be also considered that you are on a sound journey that provides relaxation and a feeling of well-being.
Both types of sound healing are beneficial. It can have a broad focus as in a sound bath, or a narrow focus that is created just for you, the client. Either way it is an enlightening vibrational experience.
If you are interested in private sessions in person or online, see my services page. If you are interested in group sound baths in person or online, see my class schedule.
Learn more about using a singing bowl in your own practice with this recorded workshop.
