GoodHuman: Relaxation Vibration

Researchers have linked sound healing therapy to various mental and physical health benefits.

Anyone who loves music can attest to the healing benefits of sound—whether it’s used to soothe a broken heart, reconnect with a memory, or even to ward off bad vibes. There’s no question that there is something truly magical about music. Science backs this up with researchers linking this type of therapy with various mental and physical health benefits, including reduced stress, improved mood, a boost to the immune system and much more.

Like many of the spiritual practices that are labeled “new age,” sound healing has roots in various ancient cultures, such as Australian aboriginal tribes’ use of the didgeridoo to spiritual Tibetan or Himalayan ceremonies that incorporate singing bowls.

These practices highlight themes of how the experience of sound manifests not only through hearing but through tactile physical vibrations and frequencies. —Dr. Marlynn Wei

One may undergo sound therapy through a variety of methods like the aforementioned singing bowls as well as binaural beats, sonic acupuncture with tuning forks, guided meditations, chakra chanting as well as more specialized forms of music therapy. It all comes down to the sound frequency and vibrational energy, which physically shifts the state of your brainwaves to form internal synchronization. This works similarly to regulating your breath in a typical meditation.

For those who are looking for a professional introduction to sound therapy, many yoga studios incorporate sound bath events for groups as well as individual healing sessions. Others may opt to try this at home. If so, check out our top picks for a sustainable singing bowl and gong, both from Zen Singing Bowls.