Research Reveals That Sound and Frequency Can Reduce Stress

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In a time of worldwide stress and upheaval, many individuals are searching for an uncomplicated and effortless method of reducing their feelings of stress and tension. Recently, several studies have highlighted the healing potential of sound and frequency. While it’s not shocking that sound, vibration, and frequency have the potential to heal, given the extensive history of vibrational musical instruments, it nonetheless provides hope for healing in these challenging times.

Sound and vibration have been used for millennia as tools for healing and spiritual practices. Recently, a few of these vibrational practices have reached the Western world, providing relief and improved well-being for many. This type of healing has been referred to as a meditative practice due to its potential for deep brainwave states; however, unlike other forms of meditation, it does not require concentration or training to reap its benefits.

Sound Healing or “Sound Bath”

The healing potential of sound, frequency, and vibration are the focus of a complementary healing practice known as sound healing or sound bath. This method often utilizes ancient vibrational musical instruments to evoke feelings of relaxation, stress reduction, and tension reduction. Ancient vibrational musical instruments often used in sound baths include the gong (originally from Asia), the didgeridoo (from the Australian Aboriginal peoples), and the enigmatic bell-like instrument called the Tibetan (or Himalayan) singing bowl. The origins of the Tibetan singing bowl have been slightly controversial; however, it is said that the singing bowl originated in Nepal and Tibet and was used by monks for spiritual ceremonies. It is only in the last few 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 remains in its infancy, sound studies are producing 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 a key vibrational instrument in sound healings, also called sound baths.

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Research examining stress, tension, and anxiety has revealed that sound baths—especially using the Tibetan singing bowl—result in a state of deep relaxation for participants. In fact, our sound healing research found that tension was significantly reduced following a sound bath that featured singing bowls (as well as gongs, crystal singing bowls, and other vibrational instruments). In addition, we discovered that other negative mood states (such as depression and anger) were also substantially reduced. Moreover, spiritual well-being was found to increase, and physical pain was reduced. It is interesting to note that we discovered that those new to sound bath had even more tension reduction following the therapy. Thus, “newbies” to this practice may expect positive results.

Other recent studies have had similar findings regarding tension reduction resulting from singing bowls, including a study that examined tension and relaxation via the EEG (electroencephalogram). Additional EEG studies with singing bowl vibration have revealed similar stress and tension reducing effects.

No Learning Curve Needed

Fortunately, sound healing is a stress reduction method that is easy and requires no learning curve; participants merely lie down on yoga mats and enjoy “bathing in sound.” Additionally, sound bath is quite a low-risk form of relaxation. Those with extreme sensitivity to sound, though, may wish to position themselves farther from the vibrational instruments and perhaps speak to the sound healing practitioner leading the sound bath prior to attending.

While more physiological research is necessary regarding the effects of sound healing (which our research team plans), this form of stress reduction offers a promising approach for reducing tension, stress, anxiety, and other negative mood states. In a time of considerable stress and upheaval worldwide, this method offers a port in the storm.