What is Sound Therapy?

What is Sound Therapy?

The Power of Sound

Sound therapy is a gentle, holistic practice that uses the vibration of sound and music to support healing in body, mind, and spirit. By combining carefully chosen instruments with mindful self-reflection, sound therapy helps restore balance and calm.

Sound affects us deeply—certain noises can make us tense, while others bring peace. Scientific research shows that vibrations from sound reach us on a cellular level, influencing how our brain, nerves, and organs function. During a sound healing session, your body naturally synchronizes with these calming frequencies, helping you release stress and move into a state of relaxation.

Studies have shown that sound therapy can slow active brain waves (beta) into relaxed, meditative states (theta and delta). In this space, your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing slow down, your stress hormones decrease, and your body releases “happy hormones” like dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins—supporting healing and emotional balance.

Sound Healing Benefits

Research demonstrates that sound healing can ease symptoms of:

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Stress and fatigue

  • Chronic pain

  • Cognitive and memory challenges

  • Emotional, mental, and spiritual imbalance

Beyond its therapeutic benefits, sound therapy is an act of self-care. Participating in a sound bath helps you unwind, release tension, and focus on deep listening—bringing your awareness gently back to the here and now.

References:

Bartel L., Mosabbir A. Possible mechanisms for the effects of sound vibration on human health. Healthcare (Basel). 2021; 9(5):597. doi:10.3390/healthcare9050597.

Goldsby, T.L., Goldsby, M.E. Eastern integrative medicine and ancient sound healing treatments for stress: Recent research advances. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2020; 19(6):24-30.

Seetharaman R, Avhad S, Rane J. Exploring the healing power of singing bowls: An overview of key findings and potential benefits. 2024 Jan-Feb; 20(1):39-43. doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2023.07.007.Epub 2023 Jul 21.

Jain S., McKusick E., Ciccone L., Sprengel M., Ritenbaugh C. Sound healing reduces generalized anxiety during the pandemic: A feasibility study. Complement Ther Med. 2023; 74:102947. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2023.102947.

Goldsby T.L., Goldsby M.E., McWalters M., Mills P.J. Effects of singing bowl sound meditation on mood, tension, and well-being: An observational study. J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2017; 22(3):401-406. doi:10.1177/2156587216668109

Naghdi L., Ahonen H., Macario P., Bartel L. The effect of low-frequency sound stimulation on patients with fibromyalgia: A clinical study. Pain Res Manag. 2015; 20(1):e21-e27. doi:10.1155/2015/375174

Milbury K., Chaoul A., Biegler K., et. al. Tibetan sound meditation for cognitive dysfunction: Results of a randomized controlled pilot trial. Psychooncology. 2013; 22(10):2354-2363. doi:10.1002/pon.3296

Sound therapy is an invitation to step away from the noise of the outside world and return to the quiet wisdom within. Through sacred tones and healing vibrations, we are gently guided into stillness, where deep rest, renewal, and inner clarity can unfold.