SOUND is an ancient practice with roots in many cultures worldwide.  Imagine, before we saw the world we felt it's rhythm... we heard it's heartbeat, the breath, the Sound. 

Sound waves are sensed by the vestibulocochlear nerve in the ear. This nerve connects directly to the vagus nerve, which activates the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). The PNS regulates your sleep, digestion, healing and immune responses. When activated, the PNS lowers your blood pressure and relaxes your muscles. 

Today, Sound Experiences are increasingly popular due to a growing body of evidence-based research showing the health benefits. Sound Therapy can quickly and effectively bring about a mindful, meditative state in its participants, which is scientifically proven to increase relaxation, positive emotions, promote healing, and reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression and physical pain. There are immediate benefits after one session as well as long-term benefits from repeated experiences.

The basic principle of Sound healing is the concept of Resonance (the vibratory frequency of an object.) The entire Universe is in a state of vibration, this includes human beings. Everything has a vibratory frequency; every organ, cell, bone, tissue, liquid of the body, and the electromagnetic fields which surround the body.  While we can clearly see ripples moving through water, we cannot exactly see vibration in our bodies, but we can feel it in an emotional sense.

Healing Sound is created using a variety of instruments such as Crystal Quartz Bowls, Himalayan Singing bowls, Chimes, Drums and Rattles.  When the instruments are played, vibrations are released to the physical and subtle energy fields around the body.  Our bodies are made up of so much fluid that we naturally come into balance with the healing vibrations.

Sound Healing provokes a state of deep relaxation where healing on an emotional and mental level becomes much easier.  Healings sounds use sympathetic resonance, bringing the listener into harmony with their surroundings, with Nature, with the natural rhythms of Creation and therefore into a relaxed state of health and wellbeing. Sound can help release emotion that is ready to move.

For individuals in retirement communities, meditation may be a new or unknown concept. 

Listening is an enjoyable and straightforward way for seniors to experience mindful meditation.

Auditory sensory stimulation has extensive benefits for the wide range of people who live in LTC. These benefits include decreasing anxiety and depression, improving cognitive symptoms and preventing decline, as well as managing and reducing responsive behaviours. Sound can help people with dementia recall positive memories and emotions. Sound also gives them an opportunity to feel connected with the world around them.

Each session will start with a friendly welcome and some deep breaths. I will explain what to expect. As the residents relax in cozy chairs with a blanket, I will play instruments that create specific types of sound waves. These sounds enable listeners to easily enter a state of deep relaxation and mindfulness. 

Unlike a concert, participants are encouraged to close their eyes, focus on themselves, and explore their own inner experiences in response to the sound. 

After a Sound Experience residents will feel relaxed, refreshed and connected.