The Science of Sound Healing
- Katie Yarger

- Jan 25, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 25, 2023

We know from experience that music invokes a certain emotion or feeling whether it brings up a memory or just a vibe you get. Is there an artist or song that gives you goosebumps every time you hear it? Certain genres that get you pumped up to workout?
Sounds can resonate differently with everyone which is why we all have different taste in the music we listen to. It's actually a pretty scientific process associated with the vibrations given off from certain frequencies of sound and how it reacts with our bodies.
Sound Healing Defined
Sound healing is a holistic practice that uses sound waves to promote healing and well-being. It is based on the idea that all matter, including the human body, is made up of vibrating energy. Sound is a form of energy, produced by the vibration of molecules in the air or other medium.
According to the law of conservation of energy, energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted from one form to another. In the case of vibrational energy, this means that it can be transferred between atoms or molecules, or converted into other forms of energy such as heat or light.
Research has shown that certain frequencies of sound, or vibrational energy, can have a positive impact on the body, including reducing inflammation, improving circulation, reducing pain, getting more restful sleep, and promoting overall relaxation.
Ancestral Beginnings
Sound healing is a practice that has been used in various cultures and civilizations throughout history. In ancient Egypt, sound was believed to have healing properties and was used in religious ceremonies. In ancient Greece, the physician Hippocrates used music to treat a variety of ailments. In traditional Chinese medicine, singing bowls and gongs were used in healing ceremonies. In many indigenous cultures, such as the Native American and Australian Aboriginal cultures, singing and drumming were used for healing purposes. Today, sound healing practices, such as singing bowls and tuning fork therapy, are used in a variety of settings including hospitals, spas, and meditation centers.
Forms of Sound Healing

One common form of sound healing is the use of singing bowls. These bowls, made of metal or crystal, produce a soothing, bell-like sound when struck or played with a mallet. The vibrations created by the bowls can help to release tension and stress in the body, resulting in a feeling of calm and tranquility.

Another popular form of sound healing is the use of tuning forks. These metal forks produce a specific frequency when struck, and can be used to target specific areas of the body for healing. For example, a fork tuned to the frequency of the planet Venus may be used to balance the second chakra, which is associated with emotions and relationships.
Frequencies
Different frequencies, also known as vibrations, are believed to have different effects on the body and mind. Some alternative healing practitioners use specific frequencies, such as binaural beats or solfeggio frequencies, to promote healing and balance in the body.
The use of sound frequencies for healing is considered to be an alternative or complementary therapy, and more research is needed to fully understand their effects and establish their effectiveness as a treatment option.
Here are a few examples of sound frequencies that are believed to have therapeutic effects:
• Delta frequencies (0.1-4 Hz) are associated with deep sleep and are thought to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety.
• Theta frequencies (4-8 Hz) are associated with deep meditation and are thought to promote feelings of calm and well-being.
• Alpha frequencies (8-12 Hz) are associated with a state of relaxation and are thought to improve focus and concentration.
• Beta frequencies (12-30 Hz) are associated with an alert and active state of mind and are thought to improve cognitive function and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Gamma frequencies (30-100 Hz) are associated with higher cognitive function and are thought to improve memory, focus and overall brain function.
• Solfeggio frequencies are a specific set of frequencies that are believed to have healing properties, including the ability to balance energy and promote overall well-being. The Solfeggio frequencies include 396 Hz, 417 Hz, 528 Hz, 639 Hz, and 852 Hz.
It's important to note that these frequencies are not FDA approved and their effectiveness is not proven by scientific research. Also, one should be cautious when using any sound frequency for healing or therapy as it may have negative side effects as well.
Holistic Integration
By using specific frequencies and vibrations, sound healing can help to balance and align the body's energy centers, resulting in a state of deep relaxation and rejuvenation, thus making it commonly incorporated into meditation and yoga.
Because they are believed to have unique vibrational energy patterns that can help to align the body's energy systems, crystals have been used for centuries to promote healing and balance in the body.
Sound healing is a non-invasive and natural form of therapy that can be beneficial for a variety of physical and emotional conditions. It is important to note that sound healing should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment but rather as a complementary therapy.

Sound: https://www.britannica.com/topic/sound (https://www.britannica.com/topic/sound)
Law of conservation of energy:
https://www.britannica.com/science/conservation-of-energy (https://www.britannica.com/science/conservation-of-energy)
(Source: "The Effects of Sound and Music on the Human Body" by Dr. Susan L. Hall)
(Source: "The Therapeutic Use of Sound and Music in Complementary and Alternative Medicine" by Peter M. Wayne and John A. Beaulieu)
(Source: "The Science of Sound Healing" by Dr. Mitchell Gaynor)
(Source: "Crystal Healing: The Complete Handbook" by Stephanie Harrison)





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