Sound baths: Water Not Required

But what are they?

Sound baths are something I kept hearing more and more about and had definitely piqued my interest. But, after my leg broke, that was my main focus.

(I know, I know, isn’t everyone tired of hearing about my leg already? It is like the only thing I write about these days! Ha.)

But, stay tuned:

This is about SOUNDBATHS. 

Doing more of what I love and starting to feeling strong again, I started to attend Restorative yoga at Athletex. Ownership of the gym had changed in the last year or so, and it turns out the owners were savvy with yoga, pranayama breathing and sound baths. 

I had heard of sound baths, and had wanted to experience one, however this had not come to fruition. A friend by proxy had received her certification in sound healing (baths), and it just hadn’t fit into my schedule… yet. 

Pleased to be back in yoga, I was pleasantly surprised that the instructor, Nicole, (I’ve mentioned this BAB once before) was certified in sound healing and actually gave us a 15 minute treat of a sound bath after practice. 

And I was nothing short of amazed and intrigued…

Having heard that sound baths, which is an ancient healing practice, have gained popularity in recent years for their reported physical and psychological benefits: Which I am always for!

Anything to help me be a better human… (It’s hard being human!)

Needless to say, I was very interested in the effects of sound baths on the mind and body, their potential to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.

I wanted to know what the hype was all about.

And there are a myriad of benefits so let me tell you about them… 

Sound baths and their physical benefits 

Sound baths involve the use of various instruments, such as gongs, singing bowls, and chimes, to create soothing sounds and vibrations. Participants lie down or sit comfortably while the sounds wash over them, creating a meditative and deeply relaxing experience. 

While the practice of sound healing dates back thousands of years and evident in many cultures, its modern resurgence is often attributed to its ability to counteract the stresses of our daily, contemporary life.

Stress reduction 

One of the primary physical benefits of sound baths is stress reduction. The calming sounds and vibrations can help to slow down the heart rate, lower blood pressure, and reduce levels of stress hormones such as cortisol.

This can have a profound impact on overall health, as chronic stress is linked to a range of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and depression.

Sleep quality 

They also help to improve sleep quality…The relaxing effects of the sound waves can promote deep relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Which can be particularly beneficial for all- but especially those who suffer from insomnia or other sleep disorders.

Pain management

Help reduce pain and inflammation in the body? Yes, please!  The vibrations produced by the instruments can penetrate deeply into the tissues, helping to release tension and promote healing. (I’ve even heard this practice basically penetrates each of your cells in your body! Holy Wow!)

Also, it is reported that there are 51 million people in America who deal with chronic pain… What are they doing to assuage the constant nagging of this pain other than drugs?

Psychological benefits

In addition to their physical benefits, sound baths can also have a profound impact on mental health. The soothing sounds can help to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. This can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression, or PTSD.

Sound baths can also enhance mindfulness and meditation practices. The sounds can help to quiet the mind and deepen the meditative experience, making it easier to stay present and focused. This can have a range of benefits, including improved concentration, enhanced creativity, and a greater sense of inner peace.

Science of Sound baths. 

Sound baths typically use frequencies between 111 Hz and 222 Hz, although the exact frequencies can vary. These frequencies are thought to align with alpha and theta brain waves, which are associated with relaxation and meditation.

Alpha waves range from 8 to 13 Hz, while theta waves range from 4 to 7 Hz.

The awake conscious brain is in Beta and with the vibrations of the sound bath you move into Theta.

Your body is literally nodding off thinking you will be asleep for 8-10 hours…

This starts the bioregulation of the body where your immune system, digestion, other systems and organs are able to function more effectively as the body can focus on function and healing rather than active- thinking, reacting and surviving in Beta brainwave mode.

Photo courtesy of Neurond.de

Alpha and Theta Brain Waves 

Alpha and theta brain waves are two types of electrical patterns that can be detected in the human brain using an electroencephalogram (EEG).

They are associated with different states of consciousness and mental activity.

Alpha Waves (8-12 Hz): Alpha waves are typically present when you are awake but in a relaxed and calm state, such as during meditation or light rest. They are associated with a state of relaxed attention and are often considered a sign of relaxation.

Theta Waves (4-8 Hz): Theta waves are slower in frequency than alpha waves and are often observed during light sleep (think dozing off) or deep meditation. They are also associated with states of creativity, insight, and vivid imagery. Theta waves are sometimes present during the early stages of sleep and can be seen in young children.

And many people are likely to doze off during sound baths… I’ve heard actual snoring! Ha. 

Both alpha and theta waves are important for different aspects of cognitive functioning and mental health. Biofeedback and neurofeedback therapies that help people learn to control their brain activity for various purposes, such as reducing anxiety or improving focus also benefit from this.

Certified sound healer creating a sound bath with (mainly) crystal bowls. Photo by Bliss Experiences 

As more research is conducted on the effects of sound healing, it is likely that sound baths will continue to be recognized as a valuable tool for promoting health and wellness in our modern world.

I personally, am very grateful my gym has been so well versed on these benefits… they even offer a Wim Hof cold plunge workshop (this one with water. wink.)  My yoga instructor has offered this as a post-workout but they also offer an hour long pranayama breath work and sound bath I have attended weekly. 

There is a lot of data and I can go and on… Although, I know for myself, I go into a very dream-like state, feel a center of peace and belonging, and what I can only describe as Zen. 

Happy Bathing!

Photo by Lake House Candle Company 

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Fact check: I strive for accuracy and fairness… if something is off, please send a shout! Kp@kpcopy.com