Sound healing, or sound therapy, is a therapeutic practice that utilises the power of sound and vibration to restore the mind, body, and spirit to a state of balance and harmony. Humans have used sound in various forms for healing and balance for thousands of years, from chanting and drumming in shamanic ceremonies to hymns and chants in religious contexts.
Sound healing process:
1. Initial Assessment
As with other forms of therapy, the session might start with a brief discussion about the client's needs and goals.
2. Setting the Ambience
The space is typically prepared to be calm and relaxing. There might be dim lighting, aromatherapy, and a soothing atmosphere to assist the client in relaxing.
3. Selection of Instruments
Depending on the therapist's tradition or preference, a variety of instruments such as Tibetan bowls, tuning forks, gongs, drums, bells, and others might be used.
4. Sound Session
The client, usually lying down or seated comfortably, immerses themselves in a "sound bath". The therapist produces sounds and vibrations using the chosen instruments.
5. Integration
At the end of the session, time is given for the client to integrate and return to their normal state of consciousness. There might be a space for sharing experiences or reflections.
Theory behing Sound Healing
- Resonance and Frequency: Everything in the universe, including our bodies, has a vibrational frequency. When we are out of balance, it’s believed our frequencies are also off-kilter. Sound healing uses specific frequencies to restore this balance.
- Brain Entrainment: The rhythmic repetition and sound frequencies can help induce altered states of consciousness, similar to meditation. These states can assist the brain in shifting from beta wave patterns (normal alert state) to alpha or theta wave patterns, which are associated with deep relaxation and intuition.
- Stimulation of the Nervous System: Vibrations from instruments, like Tibetan bowls, are believed to stimulate the nervous system and promote the release of chemicals and hormones that induce relaxation and healing.
- Balancing of Chakras: In spiritual traditions, chakras are considered energy centres in the body. Sound healing therapists often work to balance these chakras using specific sounds corresponding to each chakra.
