The art of relaxation…
Some people reach for a glass of wine; others book a yoga class. But what if we told you there’s a new wave of relaxation taking the wellness world by storm? And what if we told you that this ‘new wave’ actually isn’t new at all?
In this blog, we’re discussing the ancient practice of sound bowl healing.
Whether you’re searching far and wide for a new way to relax, or you’re looking to elevate your yoga practice, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about sound bowl healing.
What is sound bowl healing?
Sound bowl healing is best described as the use of specialized bowls to release sound waves and other sonic vibrations. These unique frequencies create a therapeutic atmosphere of deep relaxation and balance between mind, body, and soul.
Though the history of sound bowls is typically lent to religious or spiritual settings, modern sound bowls are often found in yoga settings to supplement practice, salt caves, meditation retreats, and even in the comfort of your own home thanks to video recordings — but we’ll get to that.
Sound bowl healing is typically practiced in a ritual known as ‘sound baths.’ These immersive experiences utilize several bowls of varying sizes to create different ambient sounds to ‘bathe’ participants with sound waves.
How does sound bowl healing work?
If you’ve never tried sound bowl healing, it goes a little something like this…
As mentioned, sound bowl healing is often performed in a sound bath for optimal immersion.
Those in attendance are asked to lay flat on their backs in a comfortable Savasana position. From there, the sound healing practitioner will begin the meditation session by using a tool to create different sound vibrations from singing bowls. Other instruments used during sound healing include a rainstick, gongs, chimes, and tuning forks.
The overlapping of sounds interacts with brainwaves to transport the participants into a deeply relaxed, meditative state. However, some practitioners integrate breathwork, mantras, chanting, or other guided techniques to further elevate the singing bowl meditation.
Benefits of Sound Bowl Healing
Mental, physical, emotional — any aspect of the body can benefit greatly from sound bowl healing.
While sound healing is well underway, brainwaves are altered from a beta state (waking) to an alpha state (relaxed). From there, the brainwaves continue on a journey through a theta state (dreamlike), and for some, a delta state (restorative).
Additionally, the balance between mind, body, and soul that happens during a sound bath decreases heart rate and blood pressure to deepen the breath and further relax the mind and body.
This restorative experience can offer sound bowl healing benefits that include:
- Anxiety and stress relief
- Muscle relaxation
- Pain relief
- Improved sleep
- Better mood
- A greater connection between mind, body, and soul
However, similar to other meditative experiences, sound baths can affect participants differently.
Side effects of sound healing may include overstimulation, dizziness, emotional distress, interference with hearing aids, or discomfort from prolonged Savasana. Though uncommon, it’s important to keep these factors in mind, and consider a session geared towards sound bowls for beginners.
Key Takeaways
Overall, sound bowl healing is an excellent source of deep relaxation and blissful peace.
What was once a religious ritual is now accessible for many, including our Naturally Sue community!
Our group program recordings are now available for download. So what are you waiting for? Experience immersive relaxation and the many benefits of sound healing wherever, and whenever you’d like!
