Soundbath: A healing option

In recent years, soundbaths have become increasingly popular.  There was a time when one could find only a few soundbath offerings a year.  Now, you can find multiple soundbaths offered weekly.   From individuals who have studied music theory and immersed themselves in the study of sound for years, to those who engaged in online learning or took a 2-day intensive workshop. 

Today, we find ourselves with a variety of sound practitioners offering a variety of Soundbaths in the community.  A soundbath in studios, parks, near the mountains, in national parks, aquariums, and museums. In the last few years, soundbaths have expanded to merging with other modalities, from Yoga and Soundbath, Sip and paint with Soundbath, to Reiki and Soundbath. Creative ways to encourage healing. Now, offering a floating soundbath for you to enjoy your soundbath experience while floating in the water. All these options of healing, where does one begin? 

Let’s start with what defines a soundbath.  

A sound bath is where the participants are “ bathed” in sound waves and vibrations.  This is unlike a musical performance, as the focus is on non-rhythmic tones and resonants that help guide the brain to enter a state of relationation. Instruments can range from Tibetan or crystal singing bowls, gongs, chimes, tuning forks, or the human voice. Soundbaths require non-active focus listening. No doing just begins, and is ideal for those who struggle to meditate.

How long is a session, and what does it look like? 

A Session typically lasts 45–90 minutes. The room is dimly lit and a quiet space.  Participants lie down on mats or sit comfortably, often using blankets and cushions to remain still and warm. You may be asked to bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow, and dress comfortably.  The practitioner will have a variety of instruments in the space, possibly led by candles or atmospheric lighting. Some practitioners may burn sage, palo santos, or offer scented sprays or scented oils. 

What should I bring?

A blanket, pillow, yoga mat, and wear something comfortable. Consider your location if you are outside, and depending on the weather,r bring water and wear something comfortable. 

Is a Soundbath right for me?

The vibrations from the sounds are believed to assist in stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system to help slow the heart rate and lower blood pressure.  It can assist in lowering stress. reduce tension, anger, and fatigue. As the sound practitioner moves through the practice, the sound frequencies may shift brain waves from a beta to an alpha, a delta, and a theta, which is a deep sleep.  Soundbath can help quiet the mind and provide a more relaxed sleep. There are studies that state vibrations help reduce pain and muscle tension.  

Who should not partake in a sound bath? 

Believe it or not soundbaths are not for everyone, and an ethical Soundpractitioner will speak about that before the session. Depending on you or the practitioner. You may feel it in the body. From feeling it in your teeth, ears, and jaws. You may fall into a deep sleep. I always say my best compliment as a vibrational therapist is someone snoring. This is a modality you have to experience, as each person is different. 

Individuals with sound sensitivity, prone to migraines,  epilepsy, or severe psychiatric disorders, who can be overstimulated by recent surgeries, implants, heart conditions, and Conditions & Devices. If you are expecting, particularly in the first trimester, consult with your healthcare provider before participating in a sound bath.  If you have back issues that may be lying on your back or sitting for 45- 90 minutes, a challenge. If in doubt, consult your primary caregiver.  

A Soundbath is an event that you may need to experience more than once. If you have a sensitivity or issue, disclose this to the sound practitioner before the session, whether on an intake form/waiver or by speaking to the practitioner personally.  If you are someone who tends to get cold, make sure to bring a blanket and wear layers. 

Since there are a wide variety of ways to learn soundbaths, know that there are a variety of Soundbath practitioners who will offer different and unique experiences. Find a practitioner who resonates with you and with whom you feel safe during the session. Feeling safe is the most important. If you do not feel safe, your nervous system cannot relax. Since there is no official license regulation for sound healers, look for practitioners who are trained in trauma sensitivity or sound therapy.