Sound is an integral part of one’s life. It can be in the form of speeches, songs, instrumental, etc. Whichever form it may be, sound has a lot of benefits. In ancient times people used music to work more productively or boost morale among the military. In the present times, with the onset of MP4s, phones and tabs, not a day goes by when people don’t listen to music. Either while traveling or working or exercising, music stimulates the body to push one step further, which may not have been possible if there were no sounds or music to get through the task. 

What is sound healing?

Sounds and music have also been known to heal and cure (it has become a big trend in recent times). Some sounds have a frequency that can bring the mind into a relaxed state of being. When the mind is relaxed, the body can then kick in to restore balance. And when there is a balance, a unity between the mind and the body, there is clarity in thoughts, words and deeds. However, not all sounds or music can give one the benefit of relaxation. Some get the mind and the body energised and frenzied. Sound healers say that sounds can cure insomnia and anxiety as well as reduce heart diseases, lower blood pressure and improve circulation among many other benefits.

Types of sound healing

Music is known to be one of the best stress-busters and motivators. From the early morning relaxation instrumentals to contemporary pop and rock, music and sounds can alleviate, vitalise and enliven the body, mind and soul. Some of the common types of sound healing methods are:

1. Tuning Forks: These are calibrated and held in specific parts of the body. The vibrations from the tuning forks relax tensions and clear energy blockages. This results in an emotional balance. Research suggests that this method allays bone and muscle pain. It can be considered similar to acupuncture. Although, sound frequencies from the tuning fork replaces the needles. 
2. Gong: As an ancient practice, gongs act as a technique of meditation where different tones work on the mind-body connection. These are deemed to be efficacious as they produce rich sounds and stronger vibrations on account of their size. They are beneficial in eradicating fears and emotional and mental blockages. The sound from the gong forces the muscles to relax leaving the person feeling refreshed and invigorated.
3. Binaural Beats: These are also known as brainwave entertainment. It is called binaural because when the sound in the left ear is, say 150 Hz and in the right ear it is, say 160 Hz, the brain aligns the frequencies and produces a third frequency of 10Hz. However, this can only be possible if the frequency difference is less 40Hz and each of the frequencies are within 1500 Hz. These beats can be used to reduce stress and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

Are there side effects?

Most kinds of sound healing treatments don’t pose any side effects. However, one can experience the placebo effect (and well headache, if used too often). While alleviating stress or anxiety, the placebo effect can be effective. Although, when it comes to lowering blood pressure and other diseases, it is better to get proper medical treatment. If a person has a diagnosed condition, then having sound healing as the only resort may not be wise. It can be used as complementary mitigation. Sounds assist in relaxation, but jarring sounds disrupt the vibrational balance of the body. Headaches are one of the consequences of jarring sounds (or noises). 

Sounds are a way to free oneself. It is a form of self-expression. One needn’t be a musician or a sound healer to connect with and relate to music. Just sitting by the river and listening to the sound of the water flowing, birds chirping, winds blowing and the trees dancing to the tunes of the wind, that in itself is a form of healing. And nature, as it is said, is always the best healer.