Sound bathing for a little R&R

Things can become overwhelming during the festive period. Why not try some sound bathing to help you unwind and de-stress. It’s simple to do at home, in the office or when travelling on public transport as long as you have a sound bath recording downloaded and some earphones. You can take as little or long as you like to do this practice. The key to the benefits it brings is to do it regularly and when needed.

What is sound bathing?

Sound bathing is the practice of listening mindfully to different sounds (music, tones, frequencies, and vibrations) that help relax the body and mind. Through a process called entrainment, sounds from an external source are used to tune the body back into balance. You can hear the sounds through your ears and feel the sound vibrations through your skin. Certain sounds can help lower your brain waves from their normal conscious beta state to an alpha state, which is relaxed consciousness and can even help you get down to the theta meditative state and delta sleep state.

Benefits of sound bathing

Reduced stress and anxiety

The sounds slow your heart and respiratory rates and the timeout allows for rest, relaxation and an opportunity to recharge. Also, accessing alpha and theta brainwaves allows you reach states similar to those gained from meditating.

Reduced pain

Through relaxing the body, headaches, muscle and joint pain can be eased.

Increased sense of wellbeing

How to do sound bathing

Search online for Sound bath recordings to find free and subscription options to try.
Set a timer for the amount of time you want to dedicate to this practice, that way you won’t stress out about timing. It could be as little as a few minutes.
Sit or lie down in a comfortable position. To help with this, use pillows, blankets / duvets and a sleeping mask if you are in a bright location.
Insert some headphones to really hear the nuisances of the sounds or if appropriate connect your recording to a good quality speaker.
Press play on a sound bath recording.
Close your eyes and focus on the sound.
Try to do this regularly throughout the day or week or whenever you need a few minutes to destress.