“Listening to sacred sounds brings healing energy.” This is obvious that sound has a great power to heal us. One of the best ways that sound is used for treating stress is through the sound bath. In the following array of the article, we will know more about what are sound baths and how they are beneficial in reducing stress?
What Are Sound Baths?
A sound bath is a practice of healing bodies through sound, and is a deep meditation technique that has been in practice for thousands of years, particularly in Tibet.(1)
Sound baths are a form of meditation where a person or a group is exposed to experience sound waves that are generated by chimes, bells, gongs, or singing bowls. Most sound baths combine the sounds of various instruments as each of them gives different vibrations and frequencies. The practitioner might also talk during the sound bath sessions, just like the guided meditation techniques, and might also instruct participants in breathwork.
How They Are Beneficial In Reducing Stress?
Sound has a tremendous effect on our mind. This is where it is easier to understand about few of the benefits of sound baths in reducing stress and improving mood.
Several studies support the fact that meditation can be used for reducing stress. For instance, in a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, which was published in the Journal “Depression and Anxiety” in July 2012, about 25 out of 36 studies reported superior outcomes in reducing anxiety symptoms in participants who did meditations.(2)
Similarly, another systematic review and meta-analysis of 45 randomized controlled trials, which was published in the year 2017, in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, explained that meditation results in reduced physiological markers of stress, heart rate, and cortisol levels.(3)
Research has also proved the effectiveness of music in reducing stress. According to a study published in the Journal “Psychoneuroendocrinology” in October 2015, it was found that music reduced the levels of stress among college students, particularly when they listened to it for relaxation purposes.(4)
A study of the year 2016 that considered 62 adults and gauged their feelings before a sound bath, and again checked after a meditative session that included a sound bath, showed that the tension, stress, anxiety, and negative moods significantly reduced after the sound bath.(5)
So, it can be said that sound baths can be beneficial in reducing stress and offer deep relaxation, improved mood, sleep, and overall well-being. It can also offer a feeling of rejuvenation.
Who Are Suitable For Sound Bath?
One might be a good candidate for sound baths if:
- They are realistic about what sound baths can do or cannot do.
- They are comfortable meditating or would be interested in trying meditation.
- They are interested in group meditation.
NOTE: People having migraine issues or using hearing aids should not try sound baths. Moreover, anyone having any sort of mental health condition should speak with their doctor before trying sound baths.
Conclusion:
Sound baths are meditative practices and are safe for most people and can be done easily under an experienced practitioner. This can be one of the best treatments for stress, anxiety, and depression, along with the medications. However, be known that sound baths are not a replacement for medications or medical treatments. However, since they produce enough relaxation, it could be worth a try as a complementary treatment along with professional medical attention.
