Sound relaxation - 1hr sound experience (health and care staff wellbeing)

This workshop is part of the Recovery College health and care staff wellbeing programme, which is available to people working in the Leeds Health and Care System, this includes: the NHS, primary and secondary care services, a Leeds based charity, or Leeds City Council.   

Sound relaxation – 1hr sound experience 

If you struggle to switch off or find it hard to ‘fully’ relax, this could be something to try.  

Join us for an event of complete self-nurturing; a sound relaxation experience with frame drums, ocean drums, Himalayan singing bowls, crystal bowls, gongs and a variety of percussion instruments.  

Get comfortable and warm on your mat; be sure to bring enough layers, a blanket and a pillow so that you can comfortably lie down on a yoga mat for about 50 minutes. Close your eyes and unwind as the gentle sound vibrations envelop you, immersing you in positive energy.  

‘When I attended my first sound bath, I walked into an open room that had about twelve or so yoga mats laid out on the floor and people brought their own blankets and pillows – and I felt like I was walking into a professional napping session. We laid flat on our backs, and I was so thankful I’d brought things to be comfy. For the first 10 minutes, I was focused on the instructor and my racing thoughts, but gradually, I became more attuned to the sounds and my breathing, and something shifted. I was fully aware but in a deeply relaxed state. I felt calm, refreshed and rested.’  

What is a sound bath?  

A sound bath is a meditative experience where people are immersed in sound waves from instruments like singing bowls, gongs and chimes.  They aim to promote relaxation, provide stress relief and aid wellbeing.   

Participants typically lie down as the facilitator plays the instruments, creating a soothing atmosphere that helps create a sense of relaxation. Sound baths are typically offered as group experiences and can vary in length and style, with each person having their own unique experience.  

There are a variety of different soundscapes available online, as the practice is gaining in popularity. 

Things to consider before attending a sound relaxation session:

While sound baths can provide a positive experience for many people, some depending on their individual circumstances may need to proceed with caution or avoid them altogether.  These are a few situations, in which people should be cautious or refrain from attending:  

Pregnancy: It’s important to seek guidance from your healthcare provider before joining a sound bath, especially during the first trimester. Sound baths can be gentle and calming, but some individuals may choose to avoid specific frequencies or vibrations during pregnancy as a precaution.  

Epilepsy: If you have epilepsy or a history of seizures, please consult your healthcare provider before attending a sound bath. Certain sound frequencies or patterns may potentially trigger seizures making it crucial to approach sound baths with care.  

Serious Medical Conditions: If you have a serious medical issue, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or severe mental health disorders, please speak to your healthcare provider before participating in a sound bath. Those with certain conditions may need to be cautious or avoid participation entirely, getting medical advice from your health care professional is recommended.  

Hearing Impairments: Individuals with hearing impairments can still enjoy a sound bath through vibrations or tactile sensations, but it’s important to ensure the experience is safe and comfortable. Sound baths that primarily focus on auditory stimulation may not be appropriate so it’s worth speaking with the sound therapist prior to the session.  

Sensitivity to Sound: Some people may have heightened sensitivity to specific frequencies or volumes, which can lead to discomfort or distress. If you are sensitive to sound, please speak with the sound therapist before the session begins to allow for any adjustments to accommodate individual needs.  

Most importantly, if you have any concerns, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider, particularly if your individual circumstances or any pre-existing health conditions lead you to believe that a sound bath may not be suitable for you before participating in one.