sound offerings

What to expect
Before human language developed, there were sounds, rhythms, music. Throughout the ages and throughout the world, every culture has used sound to communicate, to rouse, to soothe. Parents calm a baby to sleep with a lullaby, surgeons improve their concentration with music, sportspeople use it to improve focus, sports fans use it to motivate their team, film makers create fear, suspense and joy using music – the list goes on.

Ancient cultures used music as medicine. Modern medicine uses sound frequency machines to break down kidney and gall stones; ultrasound machines are used to heal injuries and accelerate the repair of muscle and fracture damage.

Hundreds of research studies have found that sound has both physical and mental benefits.

From cave man to modern medicine
The gong is one of the oldest man made sounds, dating back over 5,000 years, playing an important role in ceremonies, rituals and healing in cultures including China, Myanmar, Afghanistan, Greece, India, South America and Africa.

The gong's sounds and vibrations have a quick effect on the brain and the body. They move us from our awake (Beta) state to a more relaxed and calm (Alpha) state, then on to a restful (Theta) state and finally to a deeply relaxing meditative (Delta) state.

They cause the brain, heart and respiratory rates to slow down and increase the release of melatonin, endorphin and dopamine chemicals that are linked to feelings of expanded mental clarity.

A review of 400 published scientific articles found strong evidence that music can improve mood and reduce stress, with rhythm providing physical pain relief.

What is a sound bath / gong bath meditation like?
The room is darkened and warm. We start with a brief introduction, some breathing and usually a small tuning fork is presented to acquaint you with the vibrational energy.   You will be invited to lie down and get comfortable. Some people prefer to experience the sound bath under a blanket, some prefer to be unclothed and many just prefer loose comfy clothing.  A mat, neck rest and bolster will be provided.  Blankets are available. You are free to use some all or none of these. 

The deep sounds and vibrations of the gong vary according to the instrument and the mallets used. The experience is unlike listening to music, you can’t identify and grasp on to specific notes as you can with music. Instead, the gong player creates a soundscape that takes the listener on a relaxing, meditative journey. 

Similarly, the singing bowls emit their own unique and distinct sounds and have a different energy.  I use a combination of antique bowls from the 17th & 18th century as well as some modern bowls.

A gong meditation is a passive experience, in that the listener simply lays down and lets the sounds wash over them – hence the term ‘gong bath’ or ‘sound bath’. It has been described as a sonic massage as your body and mind respond to the sounds and vibrations. There is nothing to learn, no skills to acquire, so for people who find it hard to switch off or meditate, the gong is an ideal experience.

Apart from deep relaxation and reduced stress levels, participants report a number of gong benefits and experiences, such as strong emotions – from joy to tears – feelings of floating, bright lights, strong, colourful images and more.

A typical 1 hr session lasts around 45 minutes of bath and might include some playful time with the instruments afterward.

 
How To Enjoy A Gong Bath: 5 Tips For The Best Experience 

1) Wear comfortable clothing
There is nothing worse than trying to relax in jeans.  It's important to choose clothes carefully so there is no physical restrictions on your body.  Some people get undressed and get under a blanket or lie on top of it in the altogether.  While you lay back or sit back enjoying the sounds of the gongs, we keep the room at above average temperature to keep you warm.
 
2) Take several deep breaths
Before you enter the room, take a moment to yourself to breathe deeply. Try to breathe out all of the stresses and strains of the day. So you can enter the space in the best mindset possible. When your bath starts, you will be invited again for for more breathing to slow the heart rate.
 
3) Arrive with intention
Our days can easily get away from us with the busyness of life. Try to leave the day at the door and enter the space with the intention of taking care of you. This is your time, be present and enjoy.
 
4) Come with no expectations
Try not to expect too much or too little from your Gong Bath earth experience. The more pressure you put on the experience to change your life, the harder it will be for you to enjoy.  Just Be.  The experience will work best if you allow yourself to be open.

5) Rehydrate
Once you've finished your experience, you will be offered some water.  It's always a good idea to rehydrate after any alternative therapy as your mind and body has been through a changing experience. 

Conclusion
Gong Baths / Sound Baths are a fantastic way to experience some deep relaxation. The more you go, the more you'll reap the benefits. Through gong baths and other methods of relaxation, we also get an opportunity to recharge our batteries, connect to our souls, and unplug from technology. Though we might not consciously think about it, these practices allow us to connect with ourselves, our emotions, and our spiritual essence.