Listen in: How sound is increasingly being used to heal

As renowned sound healer Jonathan Goldman once said, “Sound has the power to heal and soothe the soul.” Listening to the melodic chirping of birds, the rhythmic patter of raindrops, the gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze, the calming flow of water, and the whispering of the wind can evoke a sense of lightness and bring a smile to our faces.

In today's fast-paced world, stress has become an almost inevitable part of daily life for many. From demanding work schedules to personal responsibilities, the pressures we face can take a toll on both our mental and physical well-being. However, amidst the chaos, there exists a natural solution that has been gaining recognition for its ability to alleviate stress and promote overall wellness: sound healing.

Sound healing is an ancient practice that uses various sound frequencies to harmonise the mind, body, and spirit. From Tibetan singing bowls to tuning forks to Sonariums and chanting, different techniques are employed to create vibrations that resonate with the body's energy centres, known as chakras, promoting relaxation and healing.

Throughout history, diverse cultures have employed music and singing as potent tools for healing the body and spirit. Ancient Egyptians revered musical incantations as effective remedies for illness, while Native American tribes attributed healing powers to specific sounds. In the ancient Indian tradition of nada yoga, yogis utilized sound vibrations to pacify the mind and alleviate stress.

The exploration of sound's healing potential continued with Heinrich Wilhelm Dove's discovery of binaural beats in 1839. Subsequently, in 1896, American physicians found that music could enhance blood circulation and cognitive functions. In the 1950s, British Osteopath Sir Peter Guy Manners pioneered therapeutic sound vibrations for cellular healing with the development of a specialized machine.

“In yoga, sound is perceived as an essential aspect of existence. According to modern science, the universe emerged following the Big Bang. Hatha yoga teaches that creation is an intricate interplay of sounds, with certain tones being fundamental to existence. Our nation, Bharata, derives its name from "Bha" for emotion, "Ra" for tune, and "Ta" for rhythm. This signifies the sensitivity to emotion, the ability to perceive the underlying tune, and the understanding of the rhythm, which collectively lead to grasping the existential truth,” says Hemanth Hedge, Hatha Yoga Teacher, Shambho.

One of the most notable benefits of sound healing is its ability to reduce stress. Research has shown that exposure to certain frequencies of sound can induce a state of deep relaxation, helping to calm the nervous system and lower levels of stress hormones such as cortisol. This can have a profound impact on both mental and physical health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression while improving sleep quality and immune function.

“Listening to the waves, chirping birds, flowing water, rustle of leaves on a windy day and the likes, heals stress and anxiety for me. These sounds calm me down, on a daily basis, which is why I go on long runs early in the morning, even before humans wake up,” said Ajith Thandur, runner from Mysuru.

“I think music which is sound specific to each person, helps deal with certain situations, emotions and feelings. When anxiety kicks in, you employ coping mechanisms familiar to you - a smell that calms you, a touch that soothes you, a song that brings a sense of stability to your breath and racing thoughts. I have certain songs that I listen to on repeat when I’m anxious. Why do I listen to them on repeat? Because it provides a sense of familiarity that soothes my racing heart, that helps slow down the many thoughts and voices in my head. Either I cry or I smile after listening to the songs. A temporary bliss, either way! It provides a sense of momentary relief to the overwhelmed mind,” said Cheryl Braggs, Online Reputation Manager.

For expectant mothers, sound healing can be especially beneficial during pregnancy. The gentle vibrations produced during sound therapy can help to alleviate common pregnancy-related discomforts such as nausea, back pain, and fatigue. Additionally, by reducing stress and promoting relaxation, sound healing may contribute to a smoother and more comfortable pregnancy experience.

"I am 14 weeks pregnant, I was initially skeptical about the idea of sound healing. However, upon the recommendation of a friend, I decided to explore mantras like Hanuman Chalisa, Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, and Om chants. To my surprise, I found them incredibly soothing. Each melody seemed to wash away my anxieties and tensions, leaving me with a profound sense of calm. It felt like a gentle embrace, both for me and my unborn child,” said Sahana Devrath.

“Now, I see sound healing as an integral part of my pregnancy wellness routine, offering moments of serenity amidst the chaos of pregnancy. Listening to these mantras has become a cherished ritual, reminding me of the deep connection between myself and my baby. I am exploring various sound healing methods too,” she added.

Furthermore, sound healing can provide emotional support during pregnancy and childbirth. The soothing sounds can help expectant mothers connect with their unborn babies on a deeper level, fostering a sense of bonding and emotional well-being. For those experiencing fear or anxiety about childbirth, sound therapy can offer a calming presence, empowering women to approach the experience with greater confidence and peace of mind.

“Sound frequencies make up our entire existence and promote relaxation and are believed to encourage feelings of love and balance. Listening to music with these frequencies may help pregnant women feel emotionally supported. It deepens the connection with the foetus, enhancing the sense of life within the body,” said Nidhi Nahata, Sound Healer, Justbe Sonarium.

Incorporating sound healing into a pregnancy wellness routine is relatively simple and can be done in various ways. Many wellness centers offer sound therapy sessions specifically tailored for expectant mothers, utilizing techniques such as guided meditation and gentle sound vibrations to promote relaxation and stress relief. Additionally, there are numerous resources available for practicing sound healing at home, including guided meditation recordings and instructional videos.

“Expecting mothers can safely incorporate sound healing into their pregnancy wellness routines at home by exploring gentle practices that promote relaxation and stress reduction. This may include listening to soothing instrumental music, nature music like ocean waves, thunder, rattling of the leaves, chirping of birds, chanting mantras, and guided meditations that resonate with their emotional state. The only precaution is to ensure that no instruments come into direct contact with the pregnant woman's body,” added Nidhi.

It's essential for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider before beginning any new wellness practices, including sound healing, to ensure it's safe for both mother and baby. However, for many expectant mothers, harnessing the power of sound healing can be a natural and effective way to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance overall pregnancy wellness. As we continue to navigate the challenges of modern life, integrating ancient practices like sound healing into our routines can provide a much-needed source of balance and harmony for both mind and body.