The belief that soothing sounds can calm the mind is ancient. Today, it has evolved into ‘sound healing’ therapy on the modern wellness map, as Anju Munshi discovers.
‘Om’, the first sound in prayer that many of us are familiar with, is believed to generate a calming effect when chanted. It is considered the primordial sound heard at the creation of the universe, embodying the cosmic vibration of all existence.
Modern science, many argue, has rediscovered the efficacy of this ancient truth. Now often referred to as a “sound bath”, this meditative therapy is rooted in the understanding that sound is a physical force capable of restructuring our internal state.
Healing, practitioners say, is driven by intent, where a positive thought carries its own powerful vibration.
Some sceptics dismiss sound healing as a passing fad. “These wellness fads become short-term trends before disappearing,” says Shruti De, a textile designer from Kolkata.
But experts argue that its benefits are far from temporary. “Sound healing is rooted in ancient traditions,” says Deepak Prajapati, a sound healer from Tapovan, Rishikesh. He explains that chanting brings instant tranquillity, regardless of whether one understands the words, because the rhythmic vibrations quieten the mind and sharpen focus.
“Rishikesh has many foreigners visiting who chant without understanding the mantras, yet they feel healed and at peace,” he says. “By using specific frequencies that correspond to the body’s seven chakras, sound healing works to balance our energy centres. Sustained sounds, like the Om chant or traditional ragas, help release physical tension and stress.”
“The human body is composed of nearly 70 percent water, making it an ideal conductor for sound waves,” says Varuni Mehrotra Munshi, a trained sound healer now based in London. “These vibrations move through us, gently massaging internal tissues and organs, and guiding the brain away from constant mental activity into a state of deep, restorative relaxation.”
Munshi explains that sound healing works on the principle that every cell in the body has its own natural vibration, which can fall out of balance due to stress. Sound baths, she strongly believes, reset the nervous system and help restore equilibrium. “It reconnects us to practices rooted in ancient traditions such as temple bells, chanting and pranayama.”
Expanding on this approach, Adnan Vahanvaty, founder of Heal Farm in Uttarakhand, trains wellness practitioners and coaches on how to use sound as a vital tool for holistic health. Sound has been used for centuries by communities and individuals alike. Ethnic groups gathering around a fire and chanting, orchestras, and mantras all catapult us into a meditative state, he mentions on his website, adnanvahanvaty.com.
Sound therapy, Vahanvaty says, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, shifting the body from “fight or flight” into a state of rest and calm by utilising techniques such as brainwave entrainment and emotional release. “Traditional chanting sounds, ragas and binaural beats open the subconscious, helping to release emotions tied to deep-seated memories.”
Whether through the musical scale of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa or the journey toward the ultimate silence of Samadhi, Adnan believes that combining ancient wisdom with modern technology is the future of treating cognitive and emotional health.
There are various tools used in this therapy to help the body relax. Tibetan-style bowls provide grounding sounds, while crystal bowls offer clarity and emotional balance. Gongs create powerful waves of sound, and tuning forks target specific areas of discomfort. “Hand-hammered bowls are especially effective,” observes Varuni Munshi. “Unlike machine-made versions, they produce layered frequencies that clear energy blockages and ease physical pain.”
Nirmala Sharma, a homemaker from Delhi, participated in a few sound healing sessions to tackle her recurrent headaches and says she found relief. “I trust in this healing,” she says firmly.
The beauty of sound healing is that one can practise it at home without professional equipment. A simple wine glass or metal bowl can create healing vibrations. Even natural sounds, like rain or birdsong, can help lower stress.
Ultimately, your own voice is your most powerful tool. Humming allows vibrations to travel directly through your body, calming the nervous system from the inside out. Yoga practices like Bhramari pranayama, or “bee breath”, encourage humming to soothe the nerves and de-stress.
Factsheet:
What is Sound Therapy?
A holistic wellness practice that uses sound vibrations—such as singing bowls, gongs, tuning forks, or chanting—to promote relaxation and balance in the body and mind.
How It Works
Sound waves create vibrations that may help calm the nervous system, slow brainwaves, and encourage a meditative state. Typically 30–60 minutes. Participants lie down comfortably while sounds are played around or near the body.
Common Instruments
Tibetan singing bowls ; Crystal bowls ; Gongs ; Tuning forks ; Chanting (including “Om”)
Potential Benefits
Stress reduction; Improved sleep ; Enhanced focus ; Deep relaxation ; Emotional release
Scientific Status
Research is ongoing. Some studies suggest sound-based meditation may reduce anxiety and improve mood, but it is considered a complementary—not replacement—therapy.
Photo caption and credit: From ‘Om’ to Sound Baths: Can Vibrations Really Heal Your Body and Mind? Photo: AI Generated
Trans World Features (TWF)
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