The Benefits of Sound Healing
We all know that music can affect our mood and emotions, whether it’s a feel good song to get you dancing or the calming sounds of nature to help you drift off into a peaceful slumber. But, what many people don’t realize is that the right vibrations of sound can actually heal you. Known as Sound Healing, this ancient practice has been gaining popularity with some of our most famous celebrities such as Meghan Markle and Charlize Theron. The goal of sound healing is to balance the body through vibrations, and it can be done through a variety of methods. You can even use your own voice or instrument at home to reap the benefits.
Sound therapy uses various instruments such as gongs, singing bowls, chimes and tuning forks to vibrate and soothe your mind and body. It has been proven that these vibrations can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, allowing the mind, body, and soul to heal itself. Sound healing is also believed to help with a number of ailments such as migraines, anxiety and high blood pressure.
The reason why these sounds can have such a positive impact on our bodies and minds is because of how the frequencies vibrate and affect us. The human hearing range goes from 20 hertz (Hz) to 20,000 Hz, and the vibrations from certain instruments like the singing bowls and tuning forks can affect our brainwaves and alter our state of being. This is because of something called sympathetic resonance where the vibrations from one object can cause another object to synchronize with it.
Aside from reducing our overall stress levels, these vibrations can also help to relieve chronic pain such as headaches and migraines. They can also boost your immune system, promote better sleep and improve your overall mental health. Studies have shown that the parasympathetic nervous system which is responsible for your rest and digest response, is activated through sound meditation. When this happens, the musculoskeletal system begins to soften and adrenaline stops coursing through your body.
Lastly, these soothing vibrations can help to create new patterns in the brain which can lead to improved self-esteem and confidence. They can also help you to overcome negative thoughts and feelings such as anger, frustration, depression and anxiety.
Although research into the specific effects of sound healing is limited, the anecdotal evidence is compelling. During a sound healing session, you’ll most likely lie on your mat or a comfortable cushion – comfort is key – as the practitioner plays various instruments around you. It may feel strange at first, but you’ll soon find yourself absorbed in the sound and feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and balanced. So why not give it a try for yourself? You can find many videos online of these relaxing sounds, or visit a local center for a full-blown experience. You may just find it’s the most effective way to reduce your stress and acheive a sense of calm.