SOUND

Humans unconsciously connect[5] to the rhythm and beat of music. It’s not only something that we hear, but it translates into something that we feel, both on a physical and emotional[6] level.

“Sound[7] waves are produced by a vibrating body, be it an oboe reed, guitar string, loudspeaker cone or jet engine. The vibrating sound source causes a disturbance to the surrounding air molecules, causing them to bounce off each other with a force proportional to the disturbance. The energy of their interaction creates ripples of more dense (higher pressure) to less dense (lower pressure) air molecules, with pressures above and below the normal atmospheric pressure. When the molecules are pushed closer together it is called compression; when they have pulled apart, it is called rarefaction. The back and forth oscillation of pressure produces a sound wave.”

Similar to color therapy, sound healing has its roots in ancient times. Ancient[8] cultures have used singing, chanting, drumming and various sounds to heal the body for ages. Sound has been shown to have many powerful effects on the mind and body. Different sounds can assist[9] the body in pain reduction, stress reduction, increased memory, increased productivity, learning disabilities, anxiety, PTSD[10], and sleep disorders.

Music has a powerful combination effect on the mind and body. First, the brain releases chemicals like dopamine[11], a neurotransmitter associated with “feel good” and “reward”, and oxytocin[12], a hormone sometimes known as the love hormone because of its increase during physical contact. Second, sound vibrations[13] permeate the body. Sound is a vibration that not only affects brain waves but can also be experienced in the physical. Sound frequency has the ability to influence vibration on a cellular level. When this vibrational energy is channeled through the body it helps to synchronize blockages, allowing our energy to flow more freely.