In the hustle and bustle of NYC, finding moments of peace and relaxation can be a challenge. Stress and anxiety become unwelcome companions and we often seek solace in various forms ranging from yoga, tai chi, meditation to therapy, music and nature walks. 
One powerful method of rejuvenation is the sound bath. During my time at Self Empowered Minds, I’ve discovered the beautiful benefits of crystal sound baths to enhance our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They come in different sizes and oftentimes different colors to match its respective chakra. 
Self Empowered Minds uses a set of sound bowls that can cleanse and heal the seven chakras within our body that might be blocked, which is often a complementary method used in reiki healing. 
Even when given the opportunity to produce the sounds myself by gently hitting the mallet against the bowls, the vibrations immediately puts me at ease. Whether your goal is to calm the endless chatter in your mind or unleash your full creative potential, the power of sound through sound baths can help you achieve this. 

So, what in the world is a Sound Bath?
I’ll be honest – when I first heard the words ‘Sound Bath’, my mind immediately visualized being in a hot spring environment surrounded by the sounds of gongs and bowls played in the background for total immersion. 
Well, I wasn’t completely off LOL! Minus the hot springs, a sound bath does provide an immersive and healing experience. 
A sound bath is a therapeutic practice that uses sound waves and soothing vibrations to immerse individuals in a deeply relaxing and meditative experience. Typically conducted by a skilled practitioner, sound baths often involve instruments like crystal singing bowls, gongs, chimes, and Tibetan singing bowls. 
The session creates a soundscape that washes over the participants, promoting a state of profound calmness and inner peace. It can also help alleviate feelings of stress and fatigue while producing more feelings of happiness and relaxation. 

The Science of Sound Healing

At first glance, the concept of sound healing might seem mystical or esoteric, but there is a solid scientific foundation supporting its effectiveness. I’ve learned that everything in the universe, including our bodies, is made up of vibrating energy and sound waves that can influence this energy. This helps to realign and balance the various systems within us. 
Now, that’s pretty cool.

During a sound bath, the brain enters a state of relaxed consciousness, similar to the meditative state achieved through deep breathing exercises and mindfulness. As the soothing sounds wash over us, our brainwaves shift into the alpha and theta states, which are associated with deep relaxation and creativity. This shift allows the body to activate its natural healing abilities and release tension, stress, physical and emotional blockages.

The Physical Benefits of Sound Baths

The harmonious, gentle and rhythmic sounds of a sound bath can help reduce the production of stress hormones like cortisol. This leads to a decrease in stress levels and a greater sense of peace and serenity. The vibrations generated by sound instruments can also stimulate the release of endorphins, which are our body’s natural painkillers. As a result, sound baths have been found to alleviate chronic pain and muscle tension. Last but not least, many individuals struggle with sleep disturbances due to anxiety and stress. By engaging in regular sound bath sessions, it can promote better sleep patterns and more restful nights.

The Emotional and Mental Benefits of Sound Baths

As our minds calm down during a sound bath, we enter a state of heightened focus and clarity. This can improve our problem solving capabilities and have better decision making. Sound baths can serve as a catalyst for emotional release, allowing suppressed feelings and emotions to be processed properly and handled with care. This unique and cathartic experience can lead to feeling a greater sense of emotional well-being and self-awareness. Sound baths can have a calming effect on the nervous system as well, making them a valuable tool for managing anxiety and symptoms of depression. 

The Spiritual Benefits of Sound Baths

The serene atmosphere of a sound bath can open us up to our intuitive abilities, allowing us to connect more deeply with our inner wisdom. Sound baths can induce altered states of consciousness, fostering a sense of interconnectedness with the universe and promoting spiritual growth with oneself and with each other. 

Dedicating time to self-care and inner exploration is essential for maintaining balance, happiness, peace and well-being. Sound baths offer a unique and transformative experience that facilitates relaxation, mental clarity, emotional healing, and spiritual growth that can leave us feeling grounded and more in tune with ourselves and with the world around us. 

If you haven’t had a chance to experience a sound bath before, I encourage you to attend Self Empowered Mind’s Reiki Energy Healing Circle on the fourth Tuesday evening of every month from 6:45pm-7:45pm at Active Studios/Tiger Strong NYC in the Upper East Side. 
The benefits of sound baths will leave you feeling replenished and uplifted. It is a great opportunity to connect with a beautiful community of like-minded individuals embarking on a soul-nurturing adventure to unlock their authentic selves while experiencing the healing power of sound. And what’s even better is that the first class you attend is Free! Just book your class using the coupon code FreeTrial.

Want to balance your mind and body?  If you prefer a one-on-one private Reiki session, we are happy to serve you along with options such as Biological Reiki Reading, LED therapy and meditation at Self Empowered Minds. Self Empowered Minds is here to help you strengthen your mind, empower the positive beliefs you have, and help rebuild new patterns in the brain to support healthier habits. Our services support you in the best way possible so you may fill your life to the brim with love, happiness, family, friends, health, wealth, gratitude, and joy.