Frequently Asked Questions

A sound bath is a meditative experience involving the therapeutic application of sounds which vibrate at frequencies that resonate with the body’s own natural healing processes. Instruments such as crystal and Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, tuning forks, percussion, and the voice are all used to create combinations of frequencies that can help relieve stress and anxiety, and reduce pain. 

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It may seem like a modern new age practice, but sound therapy dates back thousands of years. The Ancient Greeks used flutes, lyres, and even the hissing of snakes to treat mental health and digestion. Tibetans have been using singing bowls for over 2,000 years to aid in meditation, and Australian aboriginal tribes have long been using the didgeridoo to help heal the sick.

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Click here to watch a brief sound bath demonstration video 

Almost anyone can attend a sound bath and there is not much evidence to suggest that sound healing carries any negative side effects. Although the process is safe for most people, I recommend you consult your doctor prior to attending a sound bath, especially if you have epilepsy, a heart pacemaker, stent, or shunt, or if you are or may be in the first trimester of a pregnancy.

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While I welcome children of all ages to attend a sound healing session, please note that it may be challenging for children to sit still and quietly for long periods of time. For public/group sessions, please consider that any movement, talking, or excessive fidgeting can be disruptive to other attendees. 

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As it was for me, a sound bath can be very beneficial to more beginner levels of meditation, as it doesn’t require a lot of patience or discipline to feel the benefits. There is no complicated mantra or counting of breaths, all you need to do is listen and be present!

After a sound bath, most people say they feel physically and mentally relaxed, more clear headed, grounded, more spiritually connected, and relief from stress or anxiety. These effects are backed up by research. Modern studies have shown that sound can have positive healing effects on the mind, as well as the body. With the capacity to relax your brainwave patterns and slow down your respiratory rate, sound has been proven to reduce anxiety levels, stress and tension, depression and sadness. It has also been shown to promote a deep sense of wellbeing and grounding, as well as improving sleep (many participants have reported a “good night’s sleep” after a sound bath). 

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Additionally, sound is a non-invasive modality that can provide relief from symptoms of many conditions including Parkinsons, PTSD, and other mental health difficulties. In a 2023 study from MIT, when combined with light vibration, sound was shown to have a positive impact on reducing symptoms associated with age-related neurodegeneration, such as Alzheimers or dementia. Please note that sound healing is not a medical treatment, nor is it a replacement for medical care.

The length of a sound healing session depends on the type of session. Group sessions range from anywhere from 30 - 60 minutes, while 1 on 1 sessions are generally a bit shorter and usually range from 20 - 40 minutes.

I play all of the sound instruments at a normal, safe volume level. I regularly measure the decibel levels of my sound baths to ensure that they remain at an optimal volume. The most recent decibel measurement in a small carpeted bedroom registered at an average of 60db, with a max of 85db. Click here for a visual chart depicting decibel levels. That said, many people describe feeling as though their head is “filled with sound” or that the sound can be intensely immersive. I provide optional foam earplugs for those more sensitive to loud sounds. The use of earplugs does not take away from the benefits of the experience because your body still experiences the vibration of the sound, which is the key factor.

Be comfortable. I always recommend dressing in layers of soft clothing, like yoga or sweat pants, a lightweight T-shirt or tank, and a hoodie or sweater. You most likely will be sitting on lying on the floor like you would at a yoga studio. You may want to bring a yoga mat and pillow or bolster, and a blanket if you tend to get cold.

Participants are generally on the floor, and often choose to lay on their backs with eyes closed. You are welcome to assume whatever position is best and most comfortable for you. This is where having a yoga bolster or support can be helpful if you have lower back pain when you lie on your back - think about what you need to bring with you to be comfortable. 

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The introduction of group sessions usually begins with a brief guided meditation along with a deep breathing exercise, which helps bring everyone’s energy together in the shared space. From there, I will start playing the instruments from a stationary seated position in the room, to then making my way around the room to distribute the sound and play closer to individual participants. I may play very close to your body or head, although I will not touch you. If close proximity to the sound makes you uncomfortable, please let me know and I will take this into account. The volume and intensity will ebb and flow as the session progresses. At the conclusion of our time together, we’ll share a few moments in silence united through a final, brief breathing exercise.