The science behind
Immersive Sound Experiences
Certain sounds create vibrations that have tangible therapeutic effects on our minds and bodies.
CALM THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
ALTER BRAIN WAVE STATES
HEAL & LIVE OPTIMALLY
WHAT IS SOUND THERAPY?
Imagine a massage for your nervous system...
That's how one participant (who also happens to write for the Indy Star) described her immersive sound experience, and it's spot on.
Beyond creating a peaceful sensory atmosphere for well-deserved downtime, sound frequencies and vibrations from singing bowls shift our brainwave state from one of alertness to one of relaxation, effortlessly.
Not only do they have the power to relax us, but sound waves created by singing bowls have also been shown to balance our brain hemispheres and empower us to experience altered states of consciousness.
Easy access to healing brain waves.
Immersive sound experiences help our minds and bodies function better by shifting our brain states.
BETA
Normal conscious state for thinking and doing.
We spend most of our waking time in beta waves - doing daily tasks, thinking, processing, and focusing on tasks.
When we're "stuck" in this brain wave, it can be hard to unwind or fall asleep. Sound experiences help you switch out of beta waves and give your brain the rest it needs for both deep healing and high performance thinking.
ALPHA
Physically and mentally relaxed state.
Alpha waves are activated when doing relaxing activities like yoga or art.
During a sound bath, the vibrations first shift you into this calming yet alert state. You may notice you're in the alpha brain wave state when you feel at ease and on the cusp of falling asleep.
Creative, insightful, healing, and meditative state.
Theta waves occur as the mind and body become more relaxed. It's common to get a spark of inspiration or feel a weight lifted after spending time in in this state.
This is the "sweet spot" we are aiming for during an immersive sound experience.
THETA
DELTA
Deeply restorative, dreamless state.
Delta waves are the slowest brainwaves and are activated when we are in deep, restorative sleep. This is when your body is best able to heal and rejuvenate.
For those who struggle to get enough sleep, sound baths can help guide your brain into this state. In fact, better quality sleep is one of the most frequently reported "side effects" following an immersive sound experience.
READY TO RIDE THE WAVES?
THE RESEARCH
Some things in life are guaranteed
Immersive sound experiences won't fix everything. But, science shows they can get you one step closer to well-being.
A REDUCTION IN STRESS
Research shows an immediate reduction in tension, stress, anxiety, and negative moods following an immersive sound experience.
A HEALTHIER PHYSICAL STATE
Sound experiences are proven to have positive physical benefits such as a reduction in high blood pressure, heart rate, and pain.
A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP
Singing bowls create vibrations that trigger theta and delta brain waves — the states associated with relaxation and deep sleep.
If we accept that sound is vibration and we know that vibration touches every part of our physical being, then we understand that sound is heard not only through our ears but through every cell in our bodies.
DR. MITCHELL GAYNOR, M.D.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Nap time, all grown up.
1
BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE
From public classes, to custom private sessions, we'll create a unique sound experience for your group.
2
GET COMFORTABLE
Sound experiences are a powerful form of self-care that asks nothing of you. Simply show up and get comfortable.
3
ENJOY THE BENEFITS
Sit, lie down, think, sleep, daydream –no matter how you spend the session, your brain will reap the benefits.
My Favorite Resources
I wouldn't be able to share the power of sound experience with you if it weren't for the generosity of others. Now, it's my turn to share what I've learned to help make these healing resources accessible and available to all.
LISTEN
Thanks to emerging audio technology, we are finally able to capture high-quality recordings of immersive sound experiences that provide a taste of what you'll experience in an in-person session. Listen now.
LEARN
Check out my blog “The Calm Column” to learn more about the science of sound, sensory healing, and tips to make the most of your next immersive sound event.
READ
I've returned to Sound Medicine by Dr. Kulreet Chaudhary time and time again. If you're interested in the neuroscience of sound therapy, as well as practical ways to use music and mantras to improve your well-being, this will become one of your favorites, too.
CONNECT
Join my newsletter to get first access to my monthly schedule, special events, new offerings, helpful resources, and more.
WATCH
Discover a sound experience in action on Fox 59's segment Where is Sherman. In this segment, we discuss how singing bowls help relax the mind and body and give you a peek inside an immersive sound experience.
SHOP
Bring sound therapy into your home self-care practice with Crystal Tones crystal singing bowls.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Immersive sound experiences are often called "sound baths," but there is no water involved; the only thing you’ll be bathing in is sound waves. It’s called a sound bath due to the singing bowl’s unparalleled, immersive ability to wash over and completely envelop you, much like water does during a bath in a bathtub.
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The most important thing to bring is an open mind. Everyone's experience is different, so I encourage you to allow your experience to be whatever it needs to be for you. For optimal comfort, you should also bring a few props (if they are not going to be provided for you) including a yoga mat, a pillow, and a blanket. Warm socks and an eye mask (to reduce visual stimulation as much as possible) will also help you have a truly restorative experience. You’ll also want to bring water as you will likely feel thirsty at the end of the experience.
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Absolutely. One of the best things about immersive sound experiences is that they don't require anything of you (even being awake!) to receive the benefits. So, let yourself nod off and be shocked by how good you feel when you wake up.
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In short, no. Sound baths are proven, evidence-based, physiologically relaxing experiences. Even those who experience limited/no hearing still feel and benefit from the vibrations. Aside from that, it also serves as a pause from the constant stimulation and input we’re bombarded by in our daily lives and there is not a soul on the planet who won’t benefit from that.
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Though it is a common misconception, sound baths are not a part of yoga, nor are they an inherently spiritual modality. I facilitate from a trauma-informed, relaxation-based standpoint — not a spiritual one. That said, if it IS a spiritual practice for you, I welcome that intention and invite you to bring crystals, a journal and/or anything else that will help facilitate the spiritual experience you are seeking.
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Many people feel the benefits of an immersive sound experience during the sound bath itself. You may notice your heart rate slows, your digestion is activated, your mind feels at ease, or you may even fall asleep. Others notice more benefits after they “wake up" when the session is nearly over, or throughout the day. What you feel, and how long you feel it, differs from person to person. Some people say they feel the effects for a few days, while others report feeling more clear and focused for a few weeks. It all depends on a number of different factors in your life, but in most cases, you'll feel some positive shifts immediately.
Embrace the power of completely passive, deeply restorative rest.
In a stressed-out, burned-out, hustle-and-grind world, immersive sound experiences offer a mind-body solution that asks nothing of us but to simply be present.