In today’s fast-paced world, people are always looking for ways to unplug, slow down, relax their minds and go within. And this is why sound baths are like that perfect for that (and much more) because they can create a calming environment where you can shut out all distractions and simply focus on bringing peace and tranquility to your entire being.
What exactly is a sound bath? how does it work, And what are the advantages? In this blog we talk to Jen Vu, one of our associate teachers at The Sound Healing Academy, about her journey with healing sounds and how she ended up hosting large sound baths in recent years.
What is a sound bath?
Sound baths are therapeutic and meditative experiences where participants ‘bathe’ in the sounds and vibrations produced by various sound healing instruments, such as:
- Gong
- Crystal singing bowls
- Tibetan singing bowls
- Drums
- Glockenspiel
- Shakers
- Shruti box
- Didgeridoo
- Harps
- … and much more
Through these sounds and vibrations, the ghost comes in in a deeply meditative and relaxed state, which produces healing at all levels of our being: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. The great thing about sound baths is that every note you hear in a sound bath has a purpose. It’s more than just a series of beautiful sounds connected together; behind every note and sequence is a powerful healing intention!
If an extremely effective form of meditationsound baths are one excellent way to let go of all worries and sink into a deeply serene experience. Adding sound to the meditation experience can take your relaxation to a new level!
The benefits of sound baths
How many of us feel anxious, stressed and burned out sometimes? A lot of!
We may even hold on to negative energy that gives us a heavy feeling in our hearts, but… sound baths allow us to let all of that go and returning to a natural state of calm and well-being.
Some of the main benefits of a sound bath that we have seen over the years when teaching sound healing include:
- Calming your body and mind
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- More focus and clarity
- Reduced tension and fatigue
- Better mood and fewer negative thoughts and emotions
- Improved sleep
- Reduced muscle and joint pain
- Lower heart rate
- … and so much more
We are often asked, “How do you feel after a healthy bath?” – Well, there is one wide range of different emotions that can surface, from blissful to spread out. But most people experience a feeling of relaxation, peace and love.
Sound baths are much easier to participate in than many other meditative practices because they don’t require much discipline or patience to learn how to do them – all you have to do is listen!
A deep dive into sound baths with Jen Vu
Jen Vu is a certified sound healer based in Austin, Texas, who loves to integrate sound, movement, play, self-care and good vibes into all her offerings! So let’s hear what she says about her journey with healing sounds!
When and how did your journey with healing sounds begin?
“I’ve been playing music since I was five, starting with violin, then piano, woodwinds and percussion. Plus, I’ve been playing big gongs and drums at the back of the orchestra since I was eleven!
I remember not enjoying practicing my scales, but I always enjoyed playing with other musicians. Gradually my interest in sports and dance started to take up more and more of my time.
In 2006 I was in a car accident that left me in pain. For two years I did physical therapy, acupuncture, the chiropractor, etc., which only gave me temporary pain relief. I started having flare-ups on days when I couldn’t walk because the pain was so bad.
I started looking for alternative medicine and met a healer (now one of my mentors) who placed Himalayan bowls on and around my body. After 2 sessions with her my pain was gone and never came back! I was amazed by the healing power of sound and vibration and shortly after received my first 2 singing bowls and began my journey with sound healing.”
In what ways has sound healing changed your life?
“Sound healing has been such a gift. It hasn’t just been that way profound healing effects on my body and my physical healing, but it has also been a way for me to support my mental health.
I meditate with my instruments and it helps improve my mental focus, gain clarity and relieve stress. I love being a conduit for sound because it gives me a way to return to my musical roots in a heart-centered way, letting the sound flow through me. However, the wisdom & healing that arises is for everyone! “
What made you want to become a professional sound healer and teacher?
“It really happened naturally! I have been connecting with sound for years by playing singing bowls in my meditation practice and also by sharing sound in my yoga classes.
During the pandemic, I sat in my front yard and played bocce. Everyone was outside because we were all so tired of being inside. My neighbors would walk by, ask me what I was doing, and then ask if they could join in. I had neighbors spread out across my front yard, socially distanced. It was so clear that we all needed the healing power of sound.
This was when I decided to study more deeply and receive professional training in sound healing. The rest is history! Teaching came as a natural extension of sharing my work, as my clients kept asking me if they could learn what I was doing, and I decided to join in because the world needs more people sharing sound!”
What are your favorite tools to use and why?
“Oh, this is the hardest question because it’s like asking someone who their favorite child is! Every instrument is special and plays its role in a sound journey. I do have one special affinity for singing bowls of crystal alchemywhich are infused with precious gemstones, metals and earth minerals that have their own healing properties, which can add beautiful purpose to my sessions.”
What feedback do you receive after a sound healing session?
“Most people leave my sessions feeling good, relaxed and rested. They wanted it to continue and can’t wait for the next one!”
What are the largest and smallest locations where you have offered sound baths?
“I have had a lot of fun offering sound baths in different locations. I love doing small group sessions in swimming pools because the sound travels differently in the water and the way the receiver can feel the vibrations in the water is magical .
One of my favorite locations for sound meditations is the James Turrell Skyspace, an art installation that is the perfect container for deep contemplations and self-exploration. In his work The color insidethe artist examines the relationship between light and space. This intersection between art and well-being invites the viewer to be surrounded by the sound and connect with their own inner light. It also allows me to connect with my alma mater (The University of Texas at Austin, home of the installation) and give back to the student community – I wish I had been introduced to sound meditation at a young age.”
Is there a difference between the preparation you do depending on the size of a sound bath?
“Yes, absolutely! The selection of instruments will differ depending on size and intention. If I can, I always like to stand in the crowd and offer sound close to the body, so if it’s a smaller sound pool I might planning to take with me certain instruments that I can place on the body.
The other biggest thing I would plan and adjust for is the need to amplify if the room is large so that each participant can hear and feel the sound clearly.”
What should people expect before, during and after a healthy bath?
“Before you take a sound bath, you want to do that give yourself enough time to arrive and settle into the space so as not to cause yourself additional stress. Allow yourself to calm down and set intentions for your session, as it is nice to have some time to connect with your practitioner and community.
During the sound baths, expect a journey that affects the mind, body and soul. You may feel tingling in the body, and you may experience a physical or energetic release in the body that can sometimes be euphoric, emotional or even uncomfortable.
As you go deeper into the journey and shift into different states of consciousness, most people feel deeply relaxed and peaceful. The mind begins to calm down and makes room for deeper self-exploration. Some people are so relaxed that they fall into unconsciousness, which is wonderful for allowing the body to rest. I always remind people that it is likely that your body temperature will also drop during a healthy bath, so make sure you are comfortable and cozy!
Because our bodies are made of water and thus respond to sound and vibration, the The effects of the sound bath will stay with you. People often tell me that they have very vivid or interesting dreams, and that they sleep the best!”
Can you describe in a few sentences what a sound bath feels like for you?
“A sound bath with me will be a gentle listening experience for the whole body, where you will feel the sound deeply. The instruments and I will take you on a journey to relieve tension and stress, and you will feel restored and balanced. mind, body and soul.”
Any final words for anyone who has never been to a sound bath?
“If you’re even a little curious, it’s worth trying a sound bath. You’ll be surprised by the difference in how you feel afterwards!”
Final thoughts
And here you have it: everything you need to know about sound baths!
Ultimately, a sound bath is a subjective experience and you can try different sound baths to see what works for you. Ideally, you should feel that the healer you are seeing is offering a healthy bath with positive intentions of well-being, love and healing.
If you are curious about offering sound baths, at The Sound Healing Academy we offer one Level 2: Practitioner diploma in group course Integral sound healing (multiple instruments). where you can learn how to offer relaxing sound baths, gong baths, sound meditations and more! For more inspiration, knowledge and tips for healthy healing, check out our articles at: