By now you have likely heard the phrase “Sound Therapy.” While this method of natural healing has been making a resurgence and is often considered to be a new, trendy concept, it actually has a rich, ancient history that dates back to 4000 B.C. In modern day, Sound Healing rituals known as Sound Baths are used as a tool to reduce stress, release bodily tension, and quiet the mind.
To some, sound healing seems like a lofty practice not rooted in reality, but according to the laws of physics, all sounds have resonance and cause vibrations. This fact alone is enough to imply that sound does more than enter our ears; it has the power to affect our entire being.
While science is quick to question any healing claims related to sound, it can’t explain away the fact that people report feeling better after a sound healing session.
In fact, psychoacoustic researchers have begun to find links between sound frequencies and brain response, indicating that listening to music does have the ability to affect our well-being.
The Sound of Healing
What are the Benefits of Sound Baths?
During a sound bath, a trained practitioner plays a variety of vibration-inducing instruments such as Himalayan singing bowls, tuning forks, chimes, gongs, and drums. Many also integrate chanting into their sound bath.
Those attending the ritual lay on a mat on their back in a common yoga pose called Savasana and allow the sound waves to wash over them.
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
Sound Baths also offer some unique benefits related to the healing power of sound vibrations:
- Released toxins
- Unblocked and redirected energy
- Balanced hemispheres of the brain
- Cleansed negative emotions
The Experience of Sound Baths
If you are looking for an experience that will leave you feeling lighter, with more stable moods (at least for a couple days), and mentally refreshed, a sound bath may be the experience you’ve been searching for.
How to Prepare for a Sound Bath
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. It’s best to dress in layers to ensure you won’t become too hot or cold.
Be sure to eat a snack and drink plenty of water beforehand.
You can watch a video of a sound bath to get an idea for the experience, but don’t forget that the vibrations you will feel in your body during a sound bath will not occur while listening to a recording.
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 facilitate 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 blissful state.
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.
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.
Holistic Approach to Recovery
At Oro House, we maintain a holistic approach to recovery. Along with psychotherapy and other traditional methods of treatment, we also embrace unconventional methods that promote overall wellbeing in our clients.
We’ve found that using a variety of holistic wellness programs and amenities not only helps with recovery from addiction and mental health issues, but it also helps promote healing the whole body and mind from a physical, emotional, and psychological standpoint.
