Written by Jennifer Cox LCPC
Music therapy is nothing new. However, the difference between music therapy as you may know it vs sound healing is the use of sound waves that mimic natural vibrations.
Sound healing utilizes vibrational musical instruments called signing bowls, gongs, and other musical instruments. It is a practice that uses vibrations in order to relax your mind and body.
Research has shown that it can improve overall well being in certain areas:
*Enhances Sleep – Fall asleep faster, wake up less often, and get a better quality of sleep overall.
*Decrease depression – Studies have found that sound therapy with Tibetan singing bowls increases serotonin production; an imbalance of serotonin has been linked to conditions such as depression.
*Promotes self awareness – Being aware of your body and mind.
*Relieve stress which is one of our greatest threats to our overall health. It can assist in changing your own body’s stress response.
*Improves cognitive functioning – Too much stimulation tricks our minds into working harder, but by listening to singing bowls you could help restore cognitive function by allowing your mind to relax for a little while.
*Regulation of mood and emotions – Certain techniques are designed to promote positivity, to get you back on track.
*Reduces anxiety – When you’re feeling anxious, your body produces cortisol (the stress hormone), which suppresses your immune system and increases inflammation. Sound therapy changes your brainwaves and makes you feel more relaxed, reducing stress levels (cortisol).
*Immune system – Sound vibrations may be able to alter brain activity, producing an anti-inflammatory effect which in the end helps with upper immune system.
