Sound Meditation is the practice of deepening meditation with the use of sound and music.

 

For thousands of years, sound has been used in ancient cultures to ease anxiety and promote a sense of well being.

 

Many cultures, religions and mystic traditions have celebrated the power of music to induce trance and meditative states, and expand one's consciousness.  Sufi mysticism, Kirtan, gospel singing— even the use of bells and harps at a cathedral. 

 

I'm part of an organization called Sound Meditation San Francisco. We particularly praises and follows the tradition of Nada Yoga, an ancient Indian system of philosophy, medicine and yoga that focuses on sound vibrations. 

 

We focus on the use of ancient Tibetan instruments, particularly gongs and crystal singing bowls. We also incorporate shamanic drums, hang drums, ocean drums, koshi chimes, tingshe chimes, harps, Native American Flutes and more. 

 

We ask participants lie down in savasana (a relaxation pose), close their eyes and focus on their breath as wave after wave of sound washes over them. With an hour of sound meditation, participants can come closer to a state of peacefulness than if they were to sit for a weekend of silence. 

 

Sound meditation is a powerful hook into the transformative power of meditation. It is an excellent way for beginners to experience a state of deep peace and calm in only 20 minutes. 

 

This practice has also been known as "Sound Healing" or "Sound Baths". The beautiful sounds brings balance and harmony to the body, promote positive energy and is a powerful way to cultivate a sense of well being. 

 

Sound Meditation is a very effective form of meditation, and as such, can help ease depression, anxiety and addiction.