How to Prepare for a Sound Bath with Juliette Gamble, M.S., NBCC
What to Expect at a Sound Bath
History
Sound healing dates back to the age of the ancient Greeks. Sound frequencies were often used to treat various health ailments, including indigestion, mental disturbance, and insomnia.
In sound therapy, rhythms and frequencies are used to entrain our brainwaves. Entrainment can synchronize our fluctuating brainwaves by providing a pattern or stable frequency to which we can attune, similar to the effects of meditation.
These waves are associated with deep, meditative, and peaceful states that are highly conducive to healing as the sounds assist a downshift of the nervous system, they can also slow the heart and respiratory rate, creating therapeutic and restorative conditions for the mind and body.
. . .different brain wave states are associated with different patterns of cognition or wakefulness. For example, delta activity in the range of one to four hertz is associated with sleep, theta activity in the range of four to seven hertz is associated with relaxation and creative thinking, and beta activity in the range of 12 to 20 hertz is associated with complex problem-solving and concentration. By driving the brain toward these different states, it’s possible that certain sound-based therapies can improve sleep, combat anxiety, sharpen focus, or produce other benefits. There’s also evidence that sound- or vibration-based treatments may change the activity of specialized cells in ways that improve blood flow or bone health.
The harmonic vibrations produced by singing bowls, gongs or other sound bathing tools are intended to stimulate alpha and theta brain waves which resonate and trigger the deep meditative state of the brain in a way that stimulates healing. When done regularly, sound bathing can have profound health benefits.
Sound healing boasts many of the same benefits as meditation:
What to do After a Sound Bath
Once the sound bath completes, the practitioner will encourage you to slowly start moving your body and work yourself into a seated position. After a closing statement, the sound bath will conclude.
Afterward, it is important to drink plenty of water and remain relaxed. This might be a good time to journal how you’re feeling.
Many people have noted feeling as though they are in a dream-like state for a day or two and some have reported vivid dreams for several nights afterward. This is very normal.
During a sound bath, the body may undergo many shifts including heightened awareness, sharper intuition, and increased energy. During the energy shifts that occur after a sound bath, it’s important to get plenty of rest and drink a lot of water. Treat your body with care and nurture it as healing may be taking place in your subconscious.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Dress in layers to ensure you won’t become too hot or cold.
- Be sure to eat a light snack and drink plenty of water beforehand.
- Bring a blanket, pillow, eye mask (if you desire).
- Begin setting your intention a few days beforehand.
What to Expect at a Sound Bath
- Upon your arrival, the practitioner will likely provide you with a little background about sound healing and discuss the wide range of emotions you may experience.
- Many who attend sound baths will vacillate between feelings of extreme relaxation and discomfort.
- Typically when negative feelings arise, it is a sign that the body is attempting to release something.
- By breathing slowly and deeply, any discomfort should pass and you’ll return to a more receptive or blissful state.
History
Sound healing dates back to the age of the ancient Greeks. Sound frequencies were often used to treat various health ailments, including indigestion, mental disturbance, and insomnia.
In sound therapy, rhythms and frequencies are used to entrain our brainwaves. Entrainment can synchronize our fluctuating brainwaves by providing a pattern or stable frequency to which we can attune, similar to the effects of meditation.
These waves are associated with deep, meditative, and peaceful states that are highly conducive to healing as the sounds assist a downshift of the nervous system, they can also slow the heart and respiratory rate, creating therapeutic and restorative conditions for the mind and body.
. . .different brain wave states are associated with different patterns of cognition or wakefulness. For example, delta activity in the range of one to four hertz is associated with sleep, theta activity in the range of four to seven hertz is associated with relaxation and creative thinking, and beta activity in the range of 12 to 20 hertz is associated with complex problem-solving and concentration. By driving the brain toward these different states, it’s possible that certain sound-based therapies can improve sleep, combat anxiety, sharpen focus, or produce other benefits. There’s also evidence that sound- or vibration-based treatments may change the activity of specialized cells in ways that improve blood flow or bone health.
The harmonic vibrations produced by singing bowls, gongs or other sound bathing tools are intended to stimulate alpha and theta brain waves which resonate and trigger the deep meditative state of the brain in a way that stimulates healing. When done regularly, sound bathing can have profound health benefits.
Sound healing boasts many of the same benefits as meditation:
- Stress management
- Decreased anxiety
- Improved immune system
- Decreased depression
- Greater focus
- Deeper sleep
- Enhanced memory
- Released toxins
- Unblocked and redirected energy
- Balanced hemispheres of the brain
- Cleansed negative emotions
What to do After a Sound Bath
Once the sound bath completes, the practitioner will encourage you to slowly start moving your body and work yourself into a seated position. After a closing statement, the sound bath will conclude.
Afterward, it is important to drink plenty of water and remain relaxed. This might be a good time to journal how you’re feeling.
Many people have noted feeling as though they are in a dream-like state for a day or two and some have reported vivid dreams for several nights afterward. This is very normal.
During a sound bath, the body may undergo many shifts including heightened awareness, sharper intuition, and increased energy. During the energy shifts that occur after a sound bath, it’s important to get plenty of rest and drink a lot of water. Treat your body with care and nurture it as healing may be taking place in your subconscious.
- Sound baths helps to release stress and anxiety - Sound vibrations help to reduce anxiety and stress. They also help your brain enter a deep meditative state, which creates an environment conducive to cleansing and healing. In fact, studies have shown that meditative therapies can reduce anxiety and that relaxing music can reduce stress and anxiety.
- Decreases blood pressure and balances your nervous system - The sound vibrations produced in sound baths bring physiological as well as psychological benefits. When you enter a mindful meditative state, your blood pressure and heart rate are reduced. In fact, research published in the Journal Of Psychiatric Research found that mindful meditation practice can decrease the physiological markers like heart rate, systolic blood pressure and cortisol levels.
- Helps you to focus better and achieve a deep meditative state - Meditation has many healing benefits but attaining a full meditative state with a completely clear mind is not easy. The vibrations produced during a sound bath compel you to focus on the intense sounds, which helps you keep your mind clear of thoughts and distractions. As a result, a sound bath is a simple way of attaining a full meditative state.
- Helps balance your chakra and makes you feel relaxed - Sound bathing creates a completely safe and relaxed space. When you are lying in savasana, a comfortable and restorative pose, sound bathing can allow your body to feel more relaxed. It helps your mind let go of thoughts and rejuvenates and recharges you.
- Helps you find inner peace - A sound bath helps you completely reset your mind and reconnect with yourself. The healing vibrations expand your consciousness and bring inner peace. In fact, studies have revealed that the use of Himalayan singing bowls in meditation practice greatly enhance physiological and psychological responses before attaining complete relaxation.