Gong Sound Relaxation Bath
I am a Gong Practitioner (Qualified October 2018 with the College of Sound Healing). This is a year long course consisting of 60 hours hands on tutoring by Sheila Whittaker, and carrying out 36 one to one case studies.
The Gongbath/Sound Journey
A Gongbath is a very special experience - quite unique. The live Gongbath is a journey made with sound - you may call it a sonic massage, or sound massage. The sounds that are played on the gongs and other instruments will envelope you in a cocoon of sound that enables you to relax, de-stress and feel nurtured.
The sound of the gong lowers the frequency of the brainwaves. In effect the brain slows down, it tunes in, or "entrains" to the gong sounds.
The human brain is divided into two distinct hemispheres- the left side is the logical, thinking, rational, analytical side.
The right side is the intuitive, random, creative, subjective, holistic side.
The gong sounds help shift the focus to the right side of the brain, giving the left side a rest & allowing the listener to produce first alpha waves, then theta & sometimes delta brainwaves.Someone whose brain produces alpha brainwaves will have a very calm, relaxing experience at the gongbath.
When the listener enters the theta state all sorts of things can occur- visions, repressed emotions, subconscious memories, dreams, heightened states of awareness, as well as deep calm & relaxation. The theta state is very powerful for healing & also giving us an insight into any challenges we may have. People often get answers to questions they have been puzzling over when in the theta brainwave state, which is said to attune to universal knowledge & wisdom.
Brainwaves
Beta (12-30) cycles per second CPS) - in our normal waking state when we are active & functioning on the physical level. Important for mental activity, problem solving & concentration.
Alpha (8-12 CPS) - when you are calm & relaxed, & when you are day-dreaming, fantasizing or visualising. In this state we recall memories & we are relaxed & receptive. We are more likely to remember dreams on waking. Alpha waves are thought to act as a bridge between the conscious & subconscious mind.
Theta (4-8 CPS) - are active in deep meditation, having dreaming sleep. Memories,insights, intuition, & heigthened consciousness are associated with theta brainwave state. All our memories& past emotions & experiences are held in the subconscious. So activation of theta brainwaves may bring up suppressed memories & emotions from the past. This can enable healing to occur.
Delta (1-4 CPS) - the slowest & deepest type of brainwave. When we are in deep sleep the physical body is usually unconscious & inert, & we are enjoying the true rest of deep sleep. This allows the conscious & subconscious parts of the mind to have a break also, & we usually wake from a deep sleep feeling refreshed.