Sound Meditation
When we speak of meditation, we normally have a picture of a monk/sage sitting in a lotus position. There is a certain calm and peace in his face that we all want to have. Sound meditation is a relatively new method of meditation which on the contrary, has been around for quite some time. Through this blog, we shall learn more about it and how we can benefit from it.
What is sound meditation?
Sound meditation refers to a healing practice that not only heals the body but provides inner peace and relaxation. While other meditation techniques emphasize on silence, in this meditation, we prioritize on the reverberating sound. It revolves around the idea that sound has healing properties and we can access it through concentration and practice.
As the years progressed, the methods of sound meditation have seen rapid development. However, the core idea and philosophies remain the same. Also, modern yoga practitioners believe that sound can heal and spiritualize us. In recent times, people practice this meditation by hearing the sound of various objects.
Brief History
Different countries have their origins of sound meditation. For instance, ancient Greeks used to treat mental problems with the help of songs. The Greeks worshipped ‘Apollo’ who was the God of medicine and music. They believed that music had healing properties and it could treat the ill.
Another instance where sound meditation is seen is on the Aboriginal people in Australia. They used an instrument called ‘didgeridoo’ as a healing tool. Furthermore, the use of such practice dates back to more than 30,000 years ago. Even in countries like China and Bhutan, we can see people still using the healing properties of the meditation.
Does sound meditation help us?
In a world where people rely on physical proof, some people question the authenticity of this meditation. Various studies have shown that listening to music boosts our productivity. Also, it acts as a stress reliever. Likewise, music floods the brain with dopamine which releases oxytocin (a natural painkiller). The same concept is applicable in this meditation too. It can not only alter our minds but our bodies as well.
What are the effects of sound meditation?
It brings numerous benefits to the body. It helps in curing diseases/ailments. It does not mean that only sick people should practice sound meditation. Even healthy people can take it and gain benefits. The benefits are:
- Relaxed mood
- Mental clarity and balance
- Aids in fighting insomnia
- Enhanced immune system
- An increase in creativity
- Strong memory power
- Strong concentration levels
The ailments where sound meditation works wonders are:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Stress
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Learning problems
What is a sound meditation session like?
In a sound meditation session, you sit in a comfortable position. In most cases, you just lie down. You make the body ready to receive sound and commence the healing process. Some tools that people use in this meditation are tuning forks, singing bowls, and drums. Some people use their voices too.
Different types of sound meditation
There are various methods of meditation using sond and depending on where you decide to go, the treatment may vary.
Dalcroze method
This method teaches music to children as a form of therapy. It emphasizes the rhythm, expression, and learning from it. It provides a better grasp of our motor functions.
Neurologic music therapy
In this meditation method, we use music as a tool to alter the brainwave of a person.
Singing bowl therapy
This is an ancient method of healing through sound. It dates back to 12th century Asia and was prevalent in rituals. Nowadays, people use it to calm the mind and repair it.
There is more to sound meditation that meets the eye. Before you practice it, you need to conduct some research and take support where necessary.