Lend an ear and relax

A new wellness trend appears to be emerging this year: sound therapy. Largely inspired by the research work of scientists like Helen Lavretsky, professor of psychiatry at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, part of the UCLA Geffen School of Medicine. She claims that the deep meditative state into which sounds can plunge us may have a positive impact on our mental well-being and, consequently, on our physical health.

Indeed, while certain sounds contribute to increasing our stress levels (the classic example being that of fingernails scratching a chalkboard), others soothe our souls (imagine the hum of a tuning fork or a Tibetan bowl). By providing a stable frequency with which the brain can synchronize itself, the latter enable the listener to transition from one state of consciousness to another, namely a meditative state that is beneficial to the body.

Based on these findings, some specialists are now offering so-called sound baths. These consist of sessions during which certain instruments—gongs and didgeridoos are commonly used, among others—are made to vibrate so as to immerse participants into a state of deep wellness. Some practitioners go so far as to claim that these vibrations act directly on the nervous system to produce a healing effect.

So where does all this lead? There is a general consensus that sound can be used to enhance sensory perception, to relax the body and calm the soul, and to achieve inner peace. The Sound Therapy Institute in Australia even offers services aimed at alleviating conditions such as tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears), vertigo, insomnia and depression, to name but a few.

In short, this serves as another reminder that pills and medication are not the only remedies for what ails us. Oftentimes, it is enough to cultivate one’s own state of well-being, provided one knows how to go about it. This is the mindset Bota Bota has sought to spread since it was launched five years ago.

Drop by for a visit, and cultivate your own state of well-being!

Sources: Active Beat, MindBodyGreen, Sound Bath Healing, Lush, Sound Therapy Institute.