The Transformative Benefits of Sound Bath Therapy
Breathe in. Breathe out. Absorb the citrusy redolence of lemongrass and the soothing smell of lavender. Feel the warm calmness of the room wrap around you like velvet. Experience external worries and the weight of the world repeal off your chest. Hear the deep circular ballads of instruments mixing with a large circular bowl to create a therapeutic guiding song. Hello, introspection. This is how it feels to experience a sound bath.
In 2023, I had the experience of attending two sound bath therapy sessions, hosted by Leia Rodas, the owner and award winning esthetician behind Organic Skincare Studio in Tampa, Florida.
What is Sound Bath Therapy?
Sound bath is an immersive, mentally and spiritually stimulating therapy that incorporates the use of deep sounds, frequencies, and vibrations from healing bowls, gongs, chimes, and tuning instruments.
The goal of sound therapy is to raise your inner vibration. As people we carry lots of energies, feelings, and emotions in our bodies. Every single day. It’s natural and almost human to have a flux of varying emotions and energetic sensations. Some days one might experience a cocktail of energizing harmonies, as well as negative feelings including self-doubt or disappointment.
The bowls used in sound therapy innate a higher, richer vibration, which harmonizes the lower vibrations you experience. Studies have shown that sound therapy can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and promote relaxation, helping to alleviate anxiety and tension. During a sound bath therapy you are guided to be in a state of rest, so your body can absorb the healing frequencies.
What Do You Do During a Sound Bath?
Before I started my session, I pulled out a card from a deck of mantras and affirmations. Doing this allows you to have an intentional theme or voice of reason during your sound bath session.
The typical protocol for a sound bath is to be lying down on a yoga mat, elevated platform, or on a massage bed. During this time, your eyes should be closed. I recommend using an eye mask or lightly weighted towel to cover your eyes. You want to be in the most relaxed state. So, the less light, the better!
Another huge component of sound bath therapy is fusing breath work. During my sessions I was guided to take deep breaths as well as slowed breaths to create a rhythmic flow of relaxation. By doing breath work during your sound bath, you are tuning into your body, and calming your mind.
While some like to remain still during a sound bath, I like to elevate my legs, with my knees bent. I also alternate into a butterfly position while lying down to open up my hips and pelvic area.
Sound Bath Therapy Recommendation
If you’re in the Tampa area or surrounding areas I’d recommend you book a sound bath session with Leia Rodas. Her studio Organic Skincare by Leia is located at 1411 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, Fl 33604. Leia is well versed and knowledgable in sound bath and healing.
Sound bath therapy offers a unique and powerful way to promote relaxation, emotional healing, and overall well-being. By immersing yourself in the soothing vibrations of sound, you can unlock a deeper connection to your inner self and find a sense of peace and quietness. If you haven’t experienced a sound bath yet, consider giving it a try—you might just discover a new favorite way to relax, reflect, and recharge!