Sound Baths
Sound Baths
I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to write about one of my favorite things – sound baths!
You may have heard about these at your local yoga studio. But what exactly are sound baths? Well, there is no water involved. And no bathing suits or bathtubs.
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A sound bath is a relaxing, meditative experience where the participant is submerged in sound.
Think of it as a sonic immersion for your body, mind and spirit.
The sounds are created by live instruments such as as singing bowls, gongs, chimes and the human voice.
These sound waves harmonize the energetic body (also called the subtle body). The energetic body is the human energy field, or chakra system, comprised of seven primary chakras.
Optimal health occurs when both the physical body and the energetic body are balanced.
What are the Benefits of Attending a Sound Bath?
Most people experience a feeling of deep relaxation. Sound baths transport you to an ethereal place beyond words and thinking. Some people experience profound emotional releases. Other benefits include:
- Lower blood pressure
- Improved sleep
- Creative insights
- Pain relief
What To Expect in a Sound Bath
The facilitator should greet you, orient you to the space and make you feel welcome.
The space should be pre-arranged when you arrive, and feel inviting and relaxed.
Participants will either recline fully on a mat, or sit partially upright in a meditation chair.
There should be ample space between you and the person next to you.
Plan something quiet after attending a sound bath to get the maximum benefit. You’ll likely emerge in a different head space, so you want to allow yourself some time to reintegrate.
Note: If it’s your first time attending a sound bath, I recommend selecting a spot away from the instruments. If you have sensitive hearing, the vibrations may be too loud for you. Some sound bath studios do offer ear plugs.
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Here is a short list of Westside sound baths I’ve attended that I can vouch for.
This a beautiful airy studio with giant crystals and a retail space in the back. I highly recommend attending one of the sound baths led by the studio owner, Sugar. Be Crystal Clear is in the space formerly occupied by Golden Bridge. Mats/cushions/ear plugs provided.
The Santa Monica location is minimalist in design and has a 1 hour sound bath every Saturday night at 8pm. Herbal tea/mats/meditation chairs provided.
Yonnus Becker runs this beautiful intimate space in Venice. Sound baths aren’t programmed here on the reg, but they’re always special when offered. Check the event schedule here.
Catherine Tingey
Entrepreneur, yogini, designer, award-winning filmmaker, personal trainer and former marathon runner. She left a career in finance to start her own business and along the way, became a yoga teacher. She has been practicing yoga for 31 years and teaching privately for 11 years.
About the Author
Catherine Tingey+ Entrepreneur, yogini, designer, award-winning filmmaker, personal trainer and former marathon runner. She left a career in finance to start her own business and along the way, became a yoga teacher. She has been practicing yoga for 31 years and teaching privately for 11 years.
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