Singing Bowls Research update (Feb 2021)

A recent review [1] that included singing bowls research highlights several underlying mechanisms behind the impact of singing bowls on the mind and the body.

1. The brain waves are likely to change significantly during the sound healing.  The hypothesis indicates that the brain waves may change from a normal or agitated state to a very relaxed state such as theta or delta waves.  This can happen during the singing bowls relaxation session or while listening to calming music.
2. The binaural beats’ impact via the sound of several frequencies of singing bowls could further influence brainwaves, as measured by EEG.  This area (binaural beats) still needs to be studied since the results are not fully conclusive however, small scale pilot studies are promising.
3. Finally, the body’s biofield is likely to change due to the impact of the bowls’ vibrations.  The studies indicate that this impact tends to bring balance to the biofield.  We have done some work in this area (Details).

It is heartening to note that our research [2] is also cited in the above article. The exact text is reproduced below:

“While research in this area is currently in its infancy, it is quite promising.  Additionally, heart rate variability was recently utilized to examine the relaxation effects of 7 Tibetan singing bowls, and a strong relaxation effect was discovered when these vibrational instruments were played [2]”

For additional insights on our own singing bowls research:

• We have also studied meditation with singing bowls to understand the impact on the mood (positive and negative affect and impact on specific moods) along with changes in heart rate variability (available here)
• The frequencies contained in the sound of a singing bowl is often mis-interpreted.  For detailed insights into the frequencies of a singing bowl, read this article – “Understanding the frequencies of a Singing Bowl“.
• If you wish to learn how to use the singing bowls, you can go through the Society for Energy & Emotions page (Workshops).
• Singing bowls also help in recovering the energy.  Click sound bath with singing bowls help in energy recovery?

Participants feedback after going through meditation session with singing bowls

References:

[1] Goldsby TL, Goldsby ME. Eastern Integrative Medicine and Ancient Sound Healing Treatments for Stress: Recent Research Advances. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2020 Dec;19(6):24-30. PMID: 33488307; PMCID: PMC7819493.

[2] Gunjan Y Trivedi, Banshi Saboo (2019) A Comparative Study of the Impact of Himalayan Singing Bowls and Supine Silence on Stress Index and Heart Rate Variability. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Mental Health – 2(1):40-50.