Getting Started with Therapy-Quality Sound Bowls

So you have a brand new therapy bowl... How will you use it? Maybe you already know you can apply sound at home for relaxation and meditation; for self-care.

Along with Introductory Events and Virtual Lessons, here are some tips to familiarize yourself with the tones and feeling of your therapy bowl:

• Check the condition before you place it on your body. You should expect surface imperfections and hammer marks in handmade bowls, but not cracks. You may also see a greenish or dark patina (discoloration), which is a normal effect of handling and age; but if the metal is actually corroding, consider cleaning your bowl before you start this exercise.
• Admire the beauty and shape – is the metal recently polished or does it show a patina? Is it rounded or more flat? Does it have a thick or thin rim? How do you think these factors might affect the sounds you're about to hear and feel?
• To get the longest and strongest vibrations,  ensure the sound bowl edges are free of obstructions. For example, place the bowl on your flat, open palm and make sure your fingers are not curving up and gripping the sides.
• Tap all around the sides of your bowl with a fingertip, knuckle, or fist to explore its sounds. What happens when you tap higher on the edge? Lower? From the outside? On the inside?
• If you have a soft mallet, do the same tapping exploration. What changed? Which methods do you prefer today?
• Apply the sound directly and indirectly to different areas of your body... How does it feel? Take your time here... Are there areas where you want to receive less sound? More sound? Try various mallet types, body placements, and striking techniques to find what you like. If there are places the bowl does not ring out properly, check first that the sides are free from obstructions before you make adjustments to your technique.
• Tip #1:  It's nice to apply direct vibrations just to healthy and pain-free areas and skip over any points of discomfort.
• Tip #2:  For best results on the body and for general relaxation, strike from the outside, gently and near the rim with a soft mallet. How softly you can strike and still feel the effects?

Enjoy your exploration!

Want to learn more? Relax with Sound offers hands-on training in sound methods for individuals and professionals. Click Here for current event schedule. Visit us in Maryland, or request classes in your area – we are part of a worldwide network of trainers.

Comment below and let us know how you use your therapy bowls...