Are you looking for new ways to ease feelings of stress and anxiety? 55% of Americans use at least one form of alternative therapy to treat their health problems. Up until now, you may have only heard of white noise machines or calming rainforest music to help us regain inner peace.
Have you heard of sound bath therapy? It may surprise you to hear that a sound bath does not involve water or a tub. A sound bath is a cleansing form of sound therapy that uses vibrating sound waves to relax the body.
Do you want to learn more about the benefits of sound bath therapy? Here is everything you need to know about this holistic healing method.
What is Sound Bath Therapy?
The history of sound bath therapy goes back thousands of years. Greek physicians would use musical instruments to heal patients by using the rejuvenating power of sound. The sound waves were said to help promote sleep, improve digestion, and treat mental health issues.
Sound bath therapy is a holistic practice in which the participant is immersed in sound waves. The sound waves are generated by bells, gongs, or singing bowls. The frequencies and vibrations help the recipient to relax and work through any negative emotions.
Although the name suggests that it is a bath, there is no real bathing involved. Instead, the participant is surrounded by harmonious music and relaxing sounds to promote healing.
How Does it Work?
You may be wondering how to prepare for sound bath therapy. There is no special equipment or requirements. You should wear comfortable clothing and drink plenty of water before taking part.
It is also advisable to eat a light, healthy meal before your sound bath. Your host may provide blankets and pillows to help you feel more comfortable and relaxed. Sound bath therapy sessions can take place in a variety of venues, from gyms to rehab centers.
The instruments and equipment may vary, but the outcome will be the same. The person who is receiving the sound bath will begin by lying down in Savasana (a restful yoga pose). The practitioner will then produce various overlapping sounds using musical instruments.
Some of the instruments you may find in a sound bath therapy session include:
- Crystal bowls
- Tibetan singing bowls
- Tuning forks
- Chimes
- Bells
There may be a guided meditation to go along with the music. The practitioner will also advise on breathing during the therapy session to enhance relaxation.
The different frequencies generated during sound therapy target particular areas in the body. A knowledgeable practitioner can use specific sounds to help treat an injury or mental health issue.
Most sound bath therapy sessions last 60-90 minutes, but they can vary in length and format. Sound bath therapy is available online, but you may only experience the benefits if you attend a session in person. You can use special techniques to enhance your experience at home by lighting a candle and cleansing the objects.
Almost anyone of any age can experience sound therapy. Speak to your physician if you think you may have a medical reason not to participate.
Benefits of Sound Bath Therapy
Sound bath therapy can restore harmony and balance in the body. It can treat lots of problems including physical and mental health conditions. A study from 2017 showed that feelings of depression and anxiety were reduced after a sound meditation.
If you are working from home then you may worry about depression and anxiety. Red flags that you may be experiencing either of these could include changes in eating habits, disruptive sleep, and alcohol dependency. If you feel that you may be suffering from depression or anxiety, then reach out for help.
Some of the benefits of sound bath therapy can be:
- Stress reduction
- Improved mood
- Reduced blood pressure
- Deep relaxation
- Released tension
- Reduced anxiety
- Better sleep quality
Each person’s experience of sound bath therapy is unique. One person may experience relaxation and another may feel energized and rejuvenated. Lying down and listening to music can reduce levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) which is helpful with treating stress and anxiety.
Using sound bath therapy can be a useful part of rehabilitation programs and treatments. Feelings of stress and tension can be relieved through listening to the sounds and feeling the vibrations. These powerful sound waves can alter the brain state and boost your mood.
Where to Find Sound Bath Therapy
There are treatment centers all over the US that provide sound bath therapy. Some of the states with the highest rates of drug abuse include Missouri, Michigan, and West Virginia.
San Diego rehab centers may offer this type of treatment as part of their programs to help with substance addiction. Enquire with your San Diego alcohol rehabilitation program as to whether you can access sound bath therapy to help you on the path to sobriety.
You can find sound bath therapy in yoga studios, meditation centers, and health spas alongside treatment centers. Many insurance carriers in San Diego will cover rehabilitation costs for treatment programs such as Blue Cross Insurance.
Try Sound Bath Therapy Today
Sound bath therapy can be a powerful healing tool for anyone suffering from poor mental health. It can also become an integral part of addiction recovery. Many cultures have used sound bath therapy to help reduce pain and tension.
Getting sober during the pandemic is a great time to start your journey. Are you interested in learning more about sound bath therapy? Get in touch with one of the leading alcohol rehabilitation centers in San Diego – Apex Recovery Rehab.
Apex Recovery is one of the few rehab centers in San Diego that is owned and operated by clinicians. Reach out for help today and begin the path to sobriety. Medi-Cal is not accepted, but self-pay options are available.