Sound Therapy

Listen to a sample session

Written and filmed as part of the coursework for my Advanced Practitioner: Crystal Bowls course with the Training Centre for Wellbeing. A relaxing protocol for reducing stress, anxiety and depression. A more traditional look at the way crystal bowls can be used to target specific illnesses.

What is sound therapy?

Sound therapy uses sound, music and specialist instruments played in a therapeutic way to help improve your health and wellbeing. Instruments may include Himalayan singing bowls, crystal bowls and harmonic gongs alongside ‘therapeutic percussion’ (such as rainsticks and chimes). The way the instruments are played creates a relaxing environment for the mind and body to de-stress, and can encourage a deeper state of relaxation for the brain to repair and relax. So much illness in the body and mind is stress related. By reducing the amount of stress we feel we can hope to reduce our illnesses and symptoms. Sound therapy brings a feeling of calm and relaxation that can sometimes last for days afterwards. You can find further research links here.

So what is the BAST method?

The British Academy of Sound Therapy (BAST) has been researching and finessing the application of sound therapy for over 20 years. With this research they have created carefully considered therapeutic sound techniques which have been shown to affect physiology, neurology and psychology. Their approach in particular has been shown to improve the health and wellbeing of clients more than other relaxation methods such as massage or meditation. A BAST practitioner is able to use this method and their selected instruments to create a relaxing or energising environment, depending on their client’s needs, and bring them into a deep state of relaxation.

Further information and research links can be found on the BAST website.

Deeper state of relaxation

A deeper state of relaxation is a natural process that happens to everyone, producing similar brainwaves to the ones that occur during sleep, and is good for health and wellbeing. Being in a deeper state of meditation allows your brain to focus on important functions such as regulating the autonomic nervous system and balancing hormones. As well as happening during sleep, you may find yourself slipping into a shallow state of relaxation at times during the day, usually experienced as a drifty, day-dreamy moment. At times of stress, you may find your mind is busy and your body feels lacking in energy. By inducing a deeper state of relaxation, you can give your brain and body the time it needs to rest and repair. The BAST method uses sound in a specific way to bring a “deeply relaxing, restorative and transformative experience”.

What happens during the ‘bath’?

At the beginning of the sound or gong bath you will be invited to lie or sit comfortably (usually on your own Yoga/exercise mat), using any blankets or cushions you’ve brought with you. During the session you will be asked to relax in your position and listen as the instruments are played, closing your eyes if you wish (this will help you relax deeper). All you need to do is relax!

Remember to bring some water with you, and drink plenty before hand and after. You should also wear comfortable loose fitting clothing, and will be asked to remove footwear for comfort for the session.

Read the aftercare sheet here.

Want to hear a snippet of what to expect? Visit Lyz Cooper’s (Founder of BAST) SoundCloud!

COVID-19 update: attendees will have their temperature taken on arrival and asked a few questions regarding COVID symptoms. Anyone experiencing symptoms won’t be able to attend until they are symptom free. Antibacterial hand gel and wipes will be available. Track and trace may be in place at venues.