A beginner's guide to sound baths − what they are, how to choose a good one and what the research shows

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Elisa J. Sobo, San Diego State University

(THE CONVERSATION) In recent years, sound bathing, a therapy in which sound is used for healing, has been marketed as one of many “self-care” practices, such as journal-keeping or candle-burning, in support of personal well-being. Sold also as sound “immersions,” or sound “healing” or “therapy,” sound baths are pitched as a safe and effective way to reduce stress and increase inner peace.

Do they, though? If so, how? As a medical anthropologist who has conducted research on the sound bath boom, I have some evidence-based insights to offer.

What is a sound bath?

Dedicated yogic sound baths are typically intimate, hourlong, small group events hosted in yoga studios or other private settings. Lights dimmed, perhaps with essential oils diffusing, providers surround their typically recumbent clients with sound generated from simple instruments such as tuning forks, gongs and bowls. In my research, sound bath receivers and providers say this leads to a deep sense of peace or...