Why Sound Healing Is The Mind-Body Therapy Everyone’s Talking About

It’s A Modern Take On An Ancient Practice

Sound has been used for thousands of years to restore balance to the body and mind. Temples and pyramids in Ancient Egypt were even built to enhance the power of sound for therapeutic purposes. While the instruments may have evolved, the principle remains the same: sound can shift your internal state. “A sound bath is a meditative, immersive experience,” explains Jasmin Harsono, founder of Emerald + Tiger. “You lie down, usually with eyes closed, and allow waves of sound to wash over you. These waves are created using instruments like gongs, drums, flutes, rattles, crystal and singing bowls, and tuning forks. Each instrument carries a unique vibration that resonates with different parts of the body.” Killian Campbell, a London-based sound therapist, describes it as a shortcut to stillness. He explains, “Sound doesn’t just relax you – it calms the nervous system and invites the body into a parasympathetic state, where healing can begin.”

The Science Behind It

While it may seem esoteric, the effects of sound healing are backed by research. Sound therapy helps quiet the prefrontal cortex — the part of the brain responsible for logic, analysis and overthinking. Instead, it nudges brainwaves into slower, more meditative alpha and theta states. “Unlike music with lyrics or complex melodies, sound baths use repetitive tones and frequencies,” says Jasmin. “This simplicity helps to disengage the ‘thinking mind’ and tap into the subconscious, which is where emotional healing often happens.” For example, the 111 Hz frequency has been associated with the release of serotonin and endorphins. Research into vibroacoustic therapy – where sound vibrations are applied directly to the body – has shown promising results for chronic pain, muscle recovery and mental health. “There is now a real evidence base behind sound healing,” Jasmin adds. “It can regulate the immune system, support melatonin production for sleep, and elevate feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine, oxytocin and serotonin.”

You’ll Feel The Shift Instantly

One of the reasons sound healing has become so popular is its immediate impact. “Most people feel a shift after just one session,” says Athena Ko, founder of Buddhabox. “You’ll likely feel deeply rested, but also more centred and emotionally clear. Many first timers fall asleep or enter a blissful, in-between state. Some see colours or feel subtle energy shifts, while others report a sense of floating or melting into the floor.” She adds that sound can help process repressed emotions, especially when practiced regularly. “Sound works through the body’s water content – and because we’re mostly made of water, it’s like sending ripples through your entire being. That’s why people often have emotional releases in sessions.” Importantly, sound therapy is non-invasive and doesn’t require previous experience. “It’s not about having a spiritual practice,” Athena adds. “Just being open to the experience is enough.”

It's A Supercharged Form Of Meditation

Sound healing shares similarities with both meditation and breathwork – but it stands apart in its accessibility and impact, especially for those who find traditional mindfulness practices challenging. “Sound healing is a passive practice, which means you don’t have to focus or ‘do’ anything,” says Athena. “Unlike meditation, which requires concentration or following the breath, sound guides you into a relaxed state without the mental effort. It’s ideal for those with a busy mind.” Compared to breathwork, says Killian, sound soothes rather than activates, making it a useful tool for winding down the nervous system, particularly in the evenings or during times of stress. “It’s not about choosing one over the other,” adds Carla von Anhalt, sound healer and founder of Sacred Tones. “The practices complement each other. I often combine sound with breathwork or yoga, and the effects are amplified. But even on its own, sound can be enough to bring about real transformation.”

This intimate, newly opened space offers small group sessions (max six people) that blend breathwork, meditation and sound. Each session is thoughtfully curated to calm the nervous system and reconnect you with your inner rhythm. 

Visit MYTRUENORTHYOGA.CA

Expect grounding, balance and deep rest at Stephanie’s sessions, which start with a palo santo cleanse, followed by a meditative soundscape of crystal bowls and chimes.

Visit STEPHANIEWAXBERG.COM

This modern wellness boutique offers in-person events, digital sound baths and curated spiritual tools. The space itself is designed for grounding, healing and emotional release.

Visit SHESLOSTCONTROL.CO.UK

More than a crystal shop, Soulstice’s new studio hosts regular sound baths. Eye masks, blankets and an array of shamanic instruments guarantee an immersive experience. 

Visit SOULSTICELONDON.COM

One of London’s best-kept secrets, this urban sanctuary offers multiple crystal bowl and gong sessions throughout the week. Each class is limited to 15 people, with one-to-one sessions on offer for a more bespoke experience. 

Visit REMINDSTUDIO.COM

Led by Jasmin Harsono, a celebrated wellness guide with over 15 years’ experience, Emerald + Tiger’s multi-sensory sound journeys offer both emotional healing and practical tools for wellbeing.

Visit EMERALDANDTIGER.COM

Known for its high-performance fitness ethos, Third Space now offers calming weekly sound baths – a meditative counterpart to intense workouts. 

Visit THIRDSPACE.LONDON

A classically trained musician turned sound therapist, Simone hosts powerful, immersive sound baths in some of London’s most iconic spaces – from candlelit churches to the Natural History Museum.

Visit SSELVATICO.COM

For more, visit EMERALDANDTIGER.COM, KILLIANCAMPBELL.COM, SACREDTONES.CO.UK & follow @THEGONGGIRL

DISCLAIMER: Features published by SheerLuxe are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your GP or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programme.