Learn about 6 benefits from the fascinating world of sound healing, an alternative therapy that has been used for centuries to relieve stress and improve overall well-being
Sound healing therapy is a fascinating alternative therapy used for centuries to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. According to research, sound vibrations can slow down or increase the brain waves, subsequently relaxing or stressing the mind and body. The idea behind sound healing therapy is to use sound vibrations to slow down the brain waves and put the body in a very relaxed, dreamlike state that promotes natural healing in the body.
“A sound bath is a deeply immersive, full-body listening experience that uses sound and simple mindfulness techniques to invite gentle yet powerful therapeutic and restorative processes to the mind and body,” says Sara Auster, sound therapist, meditation teacher, and author of Sound Bath: Meditate, Heal, and Connect Through Listening.
Different instruments, such as rain sticks, singing bowls, chimes, gongs, and monochords, make the sound healing session melodically magical, transporting the participants to a different mental space. Sound healing is an invitation into a deeper state of consciousness, where you unplug from external stimuli and focus on what’s happening within you.
Scientifically, sound waves impact humans on an elemental level. According to research, sound consists of vibrations that affect humans on a cellular level, impacting brain activity, muscle, nerve, and organ function.
Imagine listening to a loud, screeching metal sound versus the sound of calming ocean waves. The first one instantly tenses nerves and muscles, locks the jaw, and raises the hair on the neck, whereas the second one instantly soothes the nerves, the muscles become more relaxed, and the mind starts to feel calmer. Similarly, sound healing aims to channel the power of sound vibrations for relaxation and healing.
A 2020 review notes that sound therapy can significantly alter brain waves, changing agitated wave patterns to exceptionally calm waveforms. As our brain waves slow down, we shift from an active state to a more relaxed, dreamlike state. Naturally, our breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure decrease. This helps our immune system function more efficiently, reduces our stress hormones, and triggers the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain.
Some prominent benefits of sound healing include:
Stress Reduction
Sound healing therapy significantly helps lower cortisol levels in the body, which reduces stress. Sometimes, a sound healing session includes breathwork exercises, which are also very effective for mindfulness and reducing stress. Before going to the session, you can inquire about the structure of the session from your therapist.
Improved Sleep
Many people find sound healing therapy helpful in improving sleep quality. With cortisol levels reduced in the body, it’s easier to fall asleep and enjoy uninterrupted sleep. In my personal experience, I always find my body to become lighter and distressed after a session. Furthermore, I can sense a regulated flow of energy afterward.
Improved Mood
Your mood elevates as you let go of the stress during the session. After a sound healing session, there is generally a sense of calmness and enhanced well-being.
However, during a session, it is very normal for some people to shed a few tears or have the urge to cry, smile, or even fall asleep. This is usually because you are regulating the flow of energy in the body and removing the emotional blockages, and when they are released, a certain emotion or sensation may arise.
Pain Reduction
Sound healing can be a noninvasive solution for muscle tension, chronic pain, and many other physical, emotional, and mental health challenges. Hospitals and clinics around the world are using alternative healing therapies such as Reiki and sound healing as an alternative healing therapy.
The sound vibrations work through the muscles, nerves, and joints to relieve pain and stress.
Enhanced Meditative Experience
With sound healing, you can experience an enhanced meditative state - a deep state of relaxation and meditation. The sounds in the session can be powerful, focusing your attention and quieting the mind for meditation purposes.
Balancing Energy
According to TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) and Ayurveda, sound healing helps regulate the energy flow in the body and balance the Chakras (energy centers in the body), which are believed to influence the physical and energetic state of the body.
A typical sound healing session lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. It can be done in a group setting or privately. Usually, the participants lie on a pillow and a mat. In some cases, they are also seated. Additionally, some therapists offer blankets to make the participants feel more comfortable. Comfort is the key for a good sound healing session; you should dress comfortably and carry a small water bottle.
Furthermore, you must pick the right therapist you feel comfortable with. It is essential to work with a qualified practitioner with experience in the kind of healing you’re seeking. Ask your practitioner about their training, background, and the types of sessions they conduct.
Safety always comes first before going to sound healing or any type of alternative healing therapy to ensure the validity and authenticity of your therapist and the healing center or clinic. Besides safety, your nervous system needs to feel calm for such therapy; if you are uncomfortable, you won’t be able to get the full benefits of the session.
If you are a HerMeNow participant or alumni, book your free coaching session now through the HerMeNow website https://www.hermenow.com/wellness.
Anam Anjum
Wellness Consultant
+971 52 629 9656