1) Vocal Toning
We define vocal toning as the practice of producing sustained sounds with one’s voice. Vowels sounds are often preferred because they provide a wider vibration throughout the body.
The deep breathing associated with a toning practice facilitates the parasympathetic function of the nervous system, which regulates nourishing and restorative functions.
Other positive effects include the release of oxytocin (1) and endorphins (2) as well as the potential to facilitate limbic deactivation, relevant to the treatment of depression and epilepsy (3).
2) Singing bowls
While Metal Singing Bowls have been around for thousands of years, their use as therapeutic tools is not documented in ancient texts despite the assumption that their use in vibrational therapy is also ancient. They are often referred to as Tibetan Singing Bowls, however a more appropriate name would be Himalayan Singing Bowls as most bowls are produced in Nepal, India and China. I prefer to call them Metal Singing Bowls. They can be used directly on the body, they can be listened to and they can be used around the body.
Quartz crucibles made of silica, also known as Crystal Singing Bowls, are a more recent invention that has gained great popularity.
Singing bowls have proven to be an effective intervention for reducing feelings of tension, anxiety, and depression, and increasing spiritual well-being (4).
3) Tuning Forks
Tuning forks can be used in a variety of ways: directly on the body (including on acupuncture points as a replacement for needles); close to the ears for a listening experience; around the body to influence its electromagnetic field (also known as Biofield).
Tuning forks, have been observed to contribute to balance the cycles of Nitric Oxide (NO), an important neurotransmitter that regulates levels of free radicals (5)(6).
4) Binaural beats
Binaural beats are often included in lists of Sound Therapies, although they don’t employ the physical vibration of sound. In fact, this technique relies mostly on the use of headphones through which it is possible to listen to two tones of different frequencies, one in each ear. This is meant to elicit a synchronisation of the brain hemispheres and a response in the brain waves activity.
The general effects may include deep relaxation, improved quality of sleep, improved focus (7).
5) Sound Baths
A Sound Bath is a restorative meditative practice that consists of being exposed to the sounds of the instruments mentioned above (as well as other instrument, including musical instruments). The aim of this practice (generally a group event) is to focus one’s attention on the sounds that reach the body and the ears with presence and awareness. Effects may vary from deep relaxation to feeling energised.