Sound bath meditations and healing is everywhere. Deep relaxation and calls to unwind seem to be the main interests in a growing fast-paced society. With greater focus on wellness and self care, it’s no surprise that this form of energy reset is taking over the wellness generation.
What is a Sound Bath?
A sound bath is a type of meditation that guides you into a deep meditative state. The repetition of the sounds is curated with different frequencies and vibrations in mind for healing. Sound healing has been used for centuries as a tool to bring about physical and mental rest. Several ancient civilizations have opted for a form of sound healing to bring about cleansing. Today, sound healing takes many shapes, but the end goal remains the same: healing and serenity. Recognizing and making the most of the body’s reaction to sound is at the heart of sound bath meditations.
There are several different tools used in a sound bath. Sound mediations include crystal or tibetan singing bowls, tuning forks, gongs chimes and more to create the atmosphere.
Many opt for sound healing as a way to access healing through the vibrations of the sound bath. Some practitioners are attuned to the exact frequency that can heal or target certain pain points or chakras. The sound bath may also vary based on the tools involved. For instance, a sound bath with a crystal bowl varies depending on the type of crystal that the bowls are made out of. The desired effect, regardless of the type of instruments used, is to leave feeling rejuvenated after experiencing the healing potential of the sounds.
A sound bath may exist as an individual meditation or as part of a wider class.
Often yoga sessions incorporate a form of sound bath healing. In these sessions, the sound bath may happen at the beginning or end of the session. Some practitioners offer a class dedicated entirely to sound bath meditation. Each individual may connect with their own energy. Be collectively guided to stillness or release stress stored in the body.
What are the Benefits?
Since sound therapy is a form of meditation, one of the main outcomes is a feeling of mental ease. Sound therapy is a way to soothe anxiety and stress. Burnt-out Millennials and Gen Zers find this form of therapy useful to detach.
Today, medical studies about sound baths are relatively limited. Still, some research proves that there is a link between physical and psychological betterment after singing bowl use. Some additional health benefits include reduced anxiety and stress, calmer body and mind, lower blood pressure, support for the parasympathetic nervous system, increased focus and improved sleep.
What to Expect During a Sound Bath?
If you’re considering attending your first sound bath experience, there are a few things to know.
Attending a class, virtual or physical, will ensure that a practitioner guides you through the meditation. Typically, the space is very important. Expect a cozy and organized space with yoga mats, complete with cushions, blankets and other offerings to make comfort accessible.
If practicing this at home using virtual sessions or YouTube videos, it is best to create a similarly comfortable environment. The use of scent also helps heighten the sensory experience. Sound meditations can vary in length. Depending on your goal and availability, both hour-long and short meditations will support you.
Be mindful that sound bath healing and general stillness may not be immediately comfortable for some. This is especially true if you’re a city dweller or used to busy environments. Creating space and time for the effects of a sound bath to land is the best way to approach it. If the first 15 minutes aren’t comfortable, seeing the session to the end may allow you enough time to actually embrace it. Additionally, you may need to adjust the type of class or practitioner that you work with until you find a sound meditation that feels right.