What is Sound Healing?

Sound healing is the practice of using sound vibration to induce and maintain deep relaxation so that your body can heal itself.

While our bodies are always seeking balance, many factors in our modern world—from psychological stressors to air pollution and digital noise—throw us off-balance, leaving us feeling anxious, exhausted, and irritable. Left unchecked, these emotions can fester in the body and develop into physical ailments or disease later on.

Pure sound vibrations help your body and mind become deeply relaxed, activating the body’s natural healing power as it regenerates cells, fights disease, and optimizes heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and many other functions for optimal well-being.

Sound healing functions on mental and emotional levels as well: It can lead you into a meditative state with a mind free of thought, or it could activate emotions that have been stuck in the body, providing a cathartic release.

There is nothing you need to “do” in a sound healing session but simply receive. Whether you are awake, asleep, or somewhere in between, the sound vibrations release tension in the body and balance the nervous system. People often describe it as a pleasant journey where burdens are lifted and the mind becomes free. But just like music itself, no description does it justice and everyone’s experience is unique. The only way to know how it affects you is to try it.

Browse Offerings

All the benefits of meditation with absolutely no effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Wear something comfortable. You'll be removing your shoes, so socks are recommended.

  • Just bring yourself. We have loungers, blankets, and eye pillows for your comfort. You're welcome to bring your own comfort items if you prefer.

    You'll be leaving your shoes, phone, and belongings in a secure room prior to the session so that you're free of distraction.

    Water and hot beverages are available in the lobby before and after the sessoin.

  • There's absolutely nothing for you to do but relax into the experience of sound vibration and see where it takes you. Be open to receiving--that's all.

  • This is not a guided meditation class. However, it's not uncommon for sound vibrations to carry you into a deeply relaxed state and give you the benefits of a calm mind.

    If you happen to have your own meditation practice, you are welcome to take a seated position during the session and use the sounds to deepen your experience.

  • It varies. Most people report sleeping very well the night after. Others feel "high" or "light" for up to 24 hours, while some are able to reset and feel mentally calm for exams or work in the coming days.

    As with any wellness activity, it's important to continue replenishing ourselves through regular practice.

  • Sound Healing can be a pleasant way to reset the nervous system, make other mindfulness practices more easily accessible, and dissolve resistance around any barriers to your well-being.

    Wellness practices build upon themselves, and those clients who come in once a week report increasing benefits.

    People who suffer from ADHD, OCD, or depression often find relief in attending twice a week.

    Every session is different, both in the sounds that are offered and in the journey you take, so experiment to see what the right dose is for you.

  • Teens tend to manage well in a 60-minute sound bath and enjoy the stress relief. While we have had children as young as 10 attend a sound bath, it's essential that we maintain a silent environment for all guests, so if you're unsure how your child will react, or if you would like a sound bath specifically for children, you might consider booking a private session first.

Research

What if you could dramatically reduce stress using a modality that is safe, pleasant, effortless, drug-free, affordable, and yields immediate results?

Starting in 2023, Monique Mead’s music entrepreneurship team at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) attempted to answer this question in collaboration with researchers from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Behavioral Health. Over the course of six months, more than 240 CMU students, faculty, and staff participated in an on-campus sound bath that employed the ‘Mead Sound Protocol.’

Results from pre- and post-sound bath surveys measuring mood and stress indicators showed a 70% reduction in perceived stress and an 80% increase in ability to relax and focus. These results are currently being prepared for publication. The CMU Sound Bath has since become a popular and permanent addition to the university’s wellness offerings.

I went to a faraway place and my anxiety is gone. How do I hold onto this?

— CMU Student

Attend a Sound Bath

In 2021 Monique’s sound healing practice found a permanent home at the Awareness & Wellness Center in Pittsburgh, located in the heart of Shadyside.

It’s a beautiful studio designed to delight all of your senses, beginning with the scent of aromatherapy as you step off the elevator, the beautiful half-moon window, and decadently comfortable loungers and amenities to help you unwind as you settle in for an hour of deep relaxation with a sonic journey that is uniquely your own.

At the end, a gentle violin serenade will guide you back into your harmonized body and mind. You’re always welcome to linger, try the instruments, or help yourself to a cup of tea and reflect on your experience with Monique.