Natural Stress Reduction through Integrative Sound

It is widely known and accepted that sound affects us mentally, emotionally, and physically. Psychologically, music can trigger memories which are associated with emotions. Physically, sound waves influence the behavior of fluids and subtle structures within our body. There are three types of sound waves. Infrasonic, audible, and ultrasonic. Infrasonic waves have been studied for their possible negative effects, while ultrasonic waves have been studied and applied within our medical system. Where does that leave audible sound?  Among Complementary and Alternative Medical Professionals, Holistic Health Coaches, and other Wellness Practitioners, audible sounds are utilized for their communal nature and therapeutic value.

Stress manifests in many different ways, due to many different causes.  Eustress is the result of positive circumstances such as getting a new job or promotion; it is not overwhelming and is likely to promote efficiency.  Distress, however, promotes anxiety.  It is caused by internal emotional hardship and/or becoming overwhelmed by external circumstances.  Sometimes people who are overwhelmed  by distress turn to quick fixes like pills.  We do not discourage this, but Subtle Healing strives to empower people with Natural Stress Solutions.  This promotes a more conscious lifestyle, which may help overall well-being. Methods such as slow and purposeful breath work calm and focus our body and mind.  Integrative Sounds such as singing bowls, drumming, and mantra meditation also bring our body and mind into a state of serenity.   Additionally, the gross vibrations of the drumming and singing bowls positively effect the subtle structures within our body.  It has been suggested that healthy circulation may be restored to stagnant fluid such as lymph, causing pain and inflammation to decrease. 

The healing nature of sound is experienced in a variety of forms.  People have been gathering together to sing, dance, and play instruments for thousands of years. It’s the way that shamanic practitioners and indigenous people celebrate and honor their ancestors, natural world, and Creator.  The transcendental sound vibrations which are chanted during harinam sankirtana, brought to us by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, bring us into a deeper state of love and devotion; this sound vibration is the source of the ecstatic bliss experienced by His devotees!  Coming together and engaging with sound has a wide range of benefits for the entirety of our being.  Whether through a Drum Circle, Singing Bowl Meditation, Kirtan, Sound Bath, or karaoke after a tough day at work, I encourage you to experience the healing power of sound for yourself.  I am sure that you will see its value.