For those who have not mastered the work-life balance, work may often be synonymous with stress! Unfortunately, going through such stress every day may bring in other problems such as IBS, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and even chronic pain. Sound healing therapy can surely help reduce stress and many other health conditions, says Olga, a Sound Healing therapist. A therapy that you will not only benefit from but also thoroughly enjoy.
She herself has suffered from anxiety from as far back as she can remember. And, it is her search for a holistic approach to help with her anxiety that has led to her passion for all things wellbeing and wellness.
Olga, in her words…
From a young child, I loved music, sound and singing. So I saw it as a natural progression to study Sound Healing, and I did so with The Celtic School Of Sound Healing here in Ireland.
I’m beyond grateful for the transformation in my own life since embarking on my own Sound Healing journey. And it’s such a privilege to share this healing modality with so many beautiful souls.
I hope this post briefs you on what sound healing is and the benefits you get from this natural therapy.
What is sound healing?
Sound healing uses many sacred instruments such as the gong, singing bowls, tuning forks, shamanic drum or vocal toning to release energetic blockages or energy stagnation in the body. It can help re-harmonise anything that’s out of harmony, inducing a state of ease and balance in the body.
“Sound healing is the ability of sound to repair aspects of ourselves that are out of alignment, as well as to restore spiritual wholeness”
Jonathan Goldman
Simply put, it involves using sound vibrations to relax your mind, body, and soul.
It has become extremely popular in the last number of years with the huge surge of interest in wellness and natural healing modalities. However, sound healing is not a new phenomenon and has been around and used to heal for centuries. Pythagoras, often referred to as the father of music, the Egyptians, Hopi Indians, Asians, Aborigines, and many indigenous peoples worldwide, have used sound to heal.
Who is the therapy for?
It is for anyone who is open to trying it. However, there are some contraindications to be taken into consideration. I would advise caution for people with sound-induced epilepsy, pregnant women, and anyone with a pacemaker or any metal implants in the body.
Also Read: Who Is Reiki For? How It Heals, The Benefits And More
Are there specific areas or conditions that sound healing seems to be very beneficial?
Sound healing is therapeutic and hence can be beneficial to anyone who wishes to relax and rejuvenate. In addition, the therapy seems to work well in those suffering chronic pain, stress-related illnesses, IBS, ME, tinnitus, mild depression, anxiety, arthritis and sleep issues.
Some of the possible benefits of Sound Healing include,
- Calms your body and mind
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Increases focus and clarity
- Decreases tension and fatigue
- Clears energy imbalances
- Elevates feelings of spiritual wellbeing
- Boosts your mood
- Improves sleep
Also Read: Stress Management: Five Simple Tips To Manage Stress
What would be a typical sound healing session like?
A typical sound healing session lasts for approximately 45- 60 minutes.
After consultation with the client, I tailor each session to best suit the individual’s needs. I will also decide on what instruments would work best for the client. I will ask them to lie fully clothed on the plinth or the floor with a yoga mat with blankets and pillows for support and comfort. This will depend on the client’s preference.
The session begins with a breathing exercise to connect the heart and mind and to set an intention for the sound healing session. I then use a rattle or the drum to perform an aura cleanse. If called to, I use Himalayan singing bowls, playing above the body and one or two placed on the body. The vibration from these bowls on the body can have a profound healing effect. The vibration can be felt, which in itself is quite a pleasant experience. I may play crystal bowls over and around the body. I have a selection of gongs and sound plates that I also incorporate into the session. Towards the end of the session, I may use the ocean drum, rain stick and Zaphir chimes, and often at this point, I will tone (sing) along with the chimes to clear and balance their chakras.
How should one prepare for the session?
Come with an open heart and mind without any attachment to a particular outcome. Set your intentions and be positive. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.
Avoid eating a heavy meal for at least two hours beforehand. Instead, eat light and healthy food. A sound healing can be more impactful when you have an empty stomach.
Also, keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. Sound waves travel better through the water. When you are well hydrated, you will have a better experience.
Also Read: 5 Important Things To Know Before Your First Yoga Class
A few of my observations from my sessions
Sound healing is a very effective modality for deep, deep relaxation. Often my clients fall asleep and comment on how fast the time went. It’s very effective for moving energy blockages and stagnant energy that other modalities can’t shift. It really seems to lift people’s spirits and is a very powerful modality.
One of my clients had shared that she felt immensely energetic and went for a pretty long walk after a sea swim! Another said she felt like a Zombie and the whole experience was surreal. Most of them feel both extremely relaxed and positive besides being tired on the day of the therapy. Despite tiredness, they have the energy and positivity to do and live up to things.
How frequently should you take sound healing sessions?
The benefits of sound healing are cumulative, and regular sessions are highly recommended to receive the most benefit.
Suppose someone is suffering from a chronic issue. In that case, a course of treatments is recommended, once per week for three weeks initially to see how things improve and then once a month for maintenance would be ideal.
Can the technique be practised at home by the person himself/herself?
Definitely, yes. You can purchase a Himalayan singing bowl, drum or whatever instrument you resonate most and play it for relaxation and mindfulness. However, if you can find a therapist, take a few sessions on and off to get the maximum benefit the therapy could offer.
If you wonder how to look for a dependable sound healing therapist, explore if there is an association of sound therapists. If there is, you can take guidance from them before you visit a therapist.
Wrapping up,
I have no doubts this ancient practice will continue to gain in popularity over the coming years. It can benefit on so many different levels. The world as we know it is changing, and people are being drawn to more natural healing modalities. With the huge rise in illness, stress, anxiety, and depression, people seek out alternatives that truly work. In my opinion and experience, Sound Healing certainly does.
Edited by love4wellness | Images: canva.com & Olga
