I use sounds such as crickets chirping, birds singing, water flowing, rain falling, and music to help me be present with deep reflection, which in turn helps to improve my health and well-being. Whether I am practicing meditation, going over my breathing exercises, or doing chores around the house, the key here is finding which sounds resonates with you.
Music has always brought me back to the present moment, which is where we experience the least amount of stress. I find that when I’m driving and listening to my favourite tunes, I feel very balanced and peaceful. Instead of having the news or a TV program in the background as you’re making supper or doing chores, try some relaxing soothing music and witness how whatever you are doing becomes more enjoyable.
When I’m in this space, I find inspiration which leads to my greatest creative ideas. We must make room for these ideas to come. When our minds are thinking about other things it leaves no room for clarity, imagination, or creativity. The average person has 10,000 thoughts per day - with all this noise it’s difficult to gain creative ideas. It’s no wonder the average person is stressed.
Studies have reported that music therapy or sound healing has benefits such as reduced stress, fewer mood swings, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, improved sleep, and better pain management. This is only the physical benefits; our mental and emotional health also improves.
There are professionals that specialize in sound healing. It’s a holistic practice that allows you to sink into a deep state of meditation using therapeutic-grade instruments. This allows us to bathe in the vibrations, gently guiding our body into a state of balance.
Although I’m not trained in this area, if this is something that interests you, you could seek out professionals in your area. There are many YouTube videos that use crystal bowls and singing bowls during meditation. You might want to check out these videos to see if this is beneficial to you. It’s all about changing our energy frequency.
Another great wellness technique that I like to do first thing in the morning before I’m out of bed, is to put on some relaxing, peaceful music and just breathe. If you only have 5 minutes this will suffice. If you have longer, try for 10 or 15 minutes. When you’re finished, grab your journal and write down everything that came to you. It doesn’t matter what it is, write down everything from petty to profound. It’s a wonderful way to start the day on a positive note, leaving all your baggage on the page. It allows you to get your ideas, dreams, and inspiration down in writing. When we can see what we want to achieve in writing, it seems more attainable.
Lastly, on your next walk, be mindful of the sounds all around you. If you do this, you are present, and this also is a form of meditation. Just having a quiet mind for a few minutes every day is a form of therapy!
Until next time…