sound baths, meditations, and healing...what are they, and what do they do? FAQS

“The power of sound to integrate & cure…is ancient and primal. Music is part of the universal language of healing” - Dr. Mitchell Gaynor

We know, the quote is poetic and beautiful.

But what does that even mean? How does sound heal? How does it have any effect at all?

If you've ever been curious, heard these words or terms being thrown around, have a little knowledge or no knowledge at all...

OR maybe you're thinking, what the hell do these words even mean?

You're in the right place. Let's get into it.

If you're new here,

naven alchemy is a hub for wellness, spirituality & transformative experiences. we offer integrative movement practices, sound sessions (baths & ceremonies) and curated events & retreats.

We also love to share knowledge, teachings, and learnings...with you.

With online classes, meditations, blog posts & eventually podcasts.

We believe that sharing our journey will help you along yours.

Building a sense of community that will eventually not only spotlight our voices, but your voices too.

As we have started promoting our sound baths and sound bath meditations & ceremonies we have had a lot of people who have no idea what they are.

Eager to learn more, eager to be apart of what we've got going, but not knowing where to start.

We could talk about this for hours (and we will). But we figured we needed to start somewhere.

So here we are, and here we go.

What is sound?

Sound is a vibrational energy that travels through air, water or solid matter. Fluctuations in air pressure stimulate the auditory system, allowing us to perceive pitch, tone, & rhythm. 

Sound is more than just something we hear—it is something we feel on a cellular level.

Sound waves influence brainwave activity, nervous system responses, and even cellular function, making sound a powerful tool for healing and transformation.

What is a sound bath?

A sound bath is a deeply immersive, full-body listening experience that uses harmonic vibrations and frequencies to promote relaxation, healing, and energetic alignment. 

We call it a "bath" because you get ‘bathed’  in layers of sound, similar to how our bodies bathe with water. Think of water to skin as vibrations and frequencies are to our nervous system.

From crystal singing bowls, alchemy bowls and Tibetan bowls to gongs, chimes, drums, and harps we use these instruments as tools to bring you on a journey and *hopefully* into a new state of being. 

Unlike traditional music, these sounds are often played in a way that encourages deep meditative states, slowing brainwave activity and bringing the mind and body into a state of profound stillness and receptivity.

Now that you have a better sense of the terms, let's tackle some of the key questions we get from people new to sound baths + sound bath meditations.

FAQS

I have never been to a sound bath, what is it like? What can I expect?

Everyone’s sound bath experience is unique. Think of yourself like a piano that is being tuned. All the sounds, vibrations and frequencies bring your body back into tune, back into balance. 

Imagine you get to lay down in a tranquil and safe environment, often on mats/pillows and covered with a blanket while gentle waves of sound wash over you.

These frequencies are meant to create a sense of weightlessness, release tension from the body, and allow the mind to drift into a deep meditative state—where healing can naturally unfold.

What is the difference between a sound healer and sound facilitator?

At naven alchemy we are very intentional with our language. We are merely a conduit for healing.

We are simply guiding you to help yourself, guiding you to heal yourself because you have the innate power to do so.

Our bodies have their own ability to heal, sometimes they just need an assist.

When we use the words 'sound healer' to us, it feels as though we are taking away your sovereignty. Your own power.

The power is within you. The healing is within you. We are merely here to guide, to assist, to support.

What is the difference between a sound bath and a sound bath meditation?

There are a couple of subtle differences between the two in focus & intention: (but often these two are combined or used interchangeably depending on the practitioner, their teachings, and their experience)

Sound baths are a more passive experience where you would be 'bathed' in instruments, sounds & frequencies like we've mentioned above.

The main focus is deep relaxation, stress reduction, and energetic realignment. There may be minimal guidance, allowing the sound itself to facilitate the experience.

Sound bath meditations can include more intentional practices that combine the immersive sound bath experience with guided meditation elements.

This could include breath-work, visualization, body awareness, or mindfulness prompts to deepen the meditative state. This encourages active engagement with the experience rather than just passive relaxation.

Do sound baths really heal? What are the benefits?

Before we begin it seems about time for a little *disclaimer*

While sound baths can feel like pure magic, they are not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Naven Alchemy is here to help you relax, realign, and reconnect—but if you have health concerns (physical, mental, or otherwise), please consult a qualified professional. Sound bathing is a complementary practice, not a replacement for professional care. So, enjoy the vibes, but be responsible for your well-being!

Okay, now let's get into it:

Yes, sound baths really do heal. 

Sound and frequency aren’t just mystical concepts—they’re backed by science. While research in this field is still growing, numerous studies and resources support the idea that vibrations and sound frequencies can have profound effects on the body.

From reducing stress and balancing the nervous system to influencing brainwave states, sound is more than just something we hear—it’s something we feel and respond to on a physiological level.

We did the research & brought some receipts:

The Healing Benefits of Sound Baths: Research and Science Based

Physical Benefits

Nervous System Regulation

Sound baths help activate your parasympathetic nervous system, lowering cortisol (the stress hormone) and promoting deep relaxation. It’s like hitting the reset button for your body.

(Source)

Improved Sleep Quality

The relaxation brought on by sound baths can enhance melatonin production, helping you sleep more soundly and helping you say goodbye to restless nights.

(Source)

Cellular Healing

Certain frequencies (like the 528 Hz "DNA Repair Frequency") are believed to support cellular regeneration & immunity while boosting oxytocin levels in the body. Talk about an internal tune-up!

(Source)

Mental and Emotional Benefits

Stress and Anxiety Reduction

Sound frequencies influence brainwave activity, guiding you from stressed-out beta waves to calm alpha and theta waves, putting you in a deep state of relaxation.

(Source)

Enhanced Cognitive Function

By syncing brain activity (connecting the two hemispheres of the brain so they can communicate better), sound baths can sharpen your focus, memory retention, and problem-solving skills.

(Source)

Emotional Release

Vibrations & Somatics work wonders on your emotional well-being, helping to release stored emotions and trauma by stimulating the emotional centre of your brain. It’s a powerful tool for catharsis and emotional balance.

(Source)

So there you have it. We hope this helps.

Sound baths offer a unique and powerful way to support your mind, body, and emotional well-being. Whether you're looking for relaxation, better sleep, or deeper emotional healing, the benefits of sound baths are profound and accessible to all.

Now we want to hear from you!

Have you ever experienced a sound bath? We'd love to hear about your experience!

Share your thoughts in the comments, connect with us on social media, or join one of our upcoming sessions.

Sending love & high vibrations

xoxo

naven alchemy