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In an age of worldwide stress and upheavals, many individuals are searching for a straightforward and simple method to reduce their feelings of stress and tension. Recently, several studies have highlighted the healing potential of sound and frequency. While it is not shocking that sound, vibration and frequency have the potential to heal, given the extensive history of vibrational musical instruments, it does offer hope for healing in these challenging times.

Sound and vibration have been used for millennia as tools for healing and spiritual practice. Recently, some of these vibrational methods have reached the Western world, bringing relief and improved well-being to many. This type of healing has been called a meditative practice because of its potential for deep brainwave states; however, unlike other forms of meditationit does not require concentration or education to reap its benefits.

Sound Healing or “Sound Bath”

The healing potential of sound, frequency and vibration is the focus of a complementary healing method called sound healing or sound bath. This method often uses ancient vibrating musical instruments to induce feelings of relaxation, stress reduction and tension reduction. Old vibrating musical instruments often used in sound bath include the gong (originally from Asia), the didgeridoo (from the Australian Aboriginal people) and the enigmatic bell-like instrument known as the Tibetan (or Himalayan) singing bowl. The origin of the Tibetan singing bowl has been somewhat controversial; however, the singing bowl is said to have originated in Nepal and Tibet and was used by monks for spiritual ceremonies. It is only in recent decades that this unusual instrument has made its way to the West.

Sound healing research shows promise for stress reduction

While research in this area is still in its infancy, sound studies are yielding promising results, particularly in the arena of tension, stress and anxiety reduction. The Tibetan singing bowl has been a focal point for many of these studies, as it is often an important vibrational instrument in sound healing, also known as sound bathing.

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Research examining stress, tension and anxiety has revealed that sound baths – particularly with the Tibetan singing bowl – result in a state of deep relaxation for participants. In fact, our sound healing research found it the tension decreased significantly after a sound bath containing singing bowls (as well as gongs, crystal singing bowls and other vibrating instruments). Additionally, we found that other negative mood states (e.g Depression and anger) was also significantly reduced. In addition, spiritual well-being appeared to increase, and physical pain decreased. It is interesting to note that we found that those new to sound baths had even more voltage drop after therapy. Thus, “newbies” to this practice can expect positive results.

Other recent studies have had similar findings about tension reduction as a result of singing bowls, including one that examined tension and relaxation via EEG (electroencephalogram). Further EEG studies with singing bowl vibrations have revealed similar stress and tension-reducing effects.

No learning curve needed

Fortunately, sound healing is a stress-reducing method that is simple and requires no learning curve; participants simply lay down on yoga mats and enjoy “bathing in sound”. In addition, sound baths are a fairly low-risk form of relaxation. However, those who are extremely sensitive to sound may wish to position themselves further from the vibrating instruments and perhaps speak with the sound healing practitioner leading the sound bath before participating.

While more physiological research is needed on the effects of sound healing (which our research team is planning), this form of stress reduction offers a promising approach to reducing tension, stress, anxiety, and other negative mood states. In a time of significant stress and upheaval worldwide, this method offers a harbor in the storm.