Reach calmness with sound baths
I discovered sound baths a few years ago while searching for a way to unwind amidst the stress and noise of daily life. A friend introduced me to this practice, which she swears by, and it’s so simple that even her partner—who isn’t particularly fond of meditation—enjoys it.
A sound bath is a straightforward form of meditation that utilizes specific sounds, typically those produced by singing bowls, gongs, or other low-pitched instruments. These sounds stimulate the brain’s electrochemical activity, activating low-frequency waves that promote a deep sense of peace and relaxation.
Sound bath therapy can be done anywhere even at home lying or sitting down.
What Is a Sound Bath?
The beauty of sound meditation, also known as sound therapy, is its flexibility—it can be practiced anywhere. Whether in the comfort of your home, lying down on a bed, sitting in a traditional meditative pose, or attending a session at a meditation center, sound baths offer an accessible way to achieve relaxation. If you’re looking to experience one outside your home, you can likely find a meditation center nearby. The two key factors to consider are a clean, calming space and an experienced guide who can skillfully use Tibetan bowls and other overtone instruments to create soothing music.
It is the specific sounds produced by these overtone instruments, typically around 131 Hz, that stimulate alpha and theta brain waves. These low-frequency, high-amplitude waves are associated with relaxation and a sense of calm—the same tranquility you might experience while walking through a lush garden, driving on an open highway, or meditating.
During a sound bath, the heart rate slows, allowing you to enter a deep meditative state. Unlike traditional meditation, which requires effort to keep the mind from wandering, the frequencies of a sound bath naturally guide you into relaxation with minimal effort. This accessibility makes sound baths an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience deep relaxation simply by lying down and letting the sound waves wash over them.
How to Try a Sound Bath at Home
Although research on the benefits of sound baths is still limited, the best way to understand their effectiveness is to experience them firsthand. You can start with a home session—just gather a blanket (as your body temperature may drop during relaxation), find a cozy spot, and download a sound bath playlist of your choice. Put your phone on silent mode, close your eyes, and allow your mind to reach a state of total relaxation. You’ll likely feel refreshed and rejuvenated afterward.
Personally, I love the sound of singing bowls so much that I invested in one for myself. I play it whenever I need a calming reset or to conclude my practice with a sense of closure.
To enhance the benefits of my sound bath, I like to follow it with a warm cup of Tusol adaptogen-filled latte made with cocoa and ashwagandha. This helps extend the relaxation effects before I transition back into my daily activities.
Give it a try and let us know how it works for you!
