The
Tibetan singing bowls have long been used by Buddhist monks to practice meditation. In addition to monks, some wellness practitioners including music therapists, massage therapists and yoga therapists also use these bowls during treatment.
Many people claim that vibrations of these singing bowls have a positive effect on the body by reducing stress. It does so by harmonizing the cells and balancing the body’s energy system. Some proponents even claim that Tibetan singing bowls can stimulate the immune system and produce beneficial changes in brain waves.
Despite their long history of use, very few scientific studies have examined the potential benefits of Tibetan singing bowls.
Study
A study published in the
Swiss Journal Research in Complementary Medicine examined 54 people with chronic pain originating from their spine. People were divided into three groups. Group one was assigned six sessions of singing bowl therapy, group two was prescribed a placebo treatment and group three was given no treatment at all.
Result
The study showed that people given the singing treatment and placebo experienced a significant decrease in pain intensity. Both the singing bowl therapy and placebo therapy had a stress-reducing effect on participants.
Based on the result of the study, authors concluded that singing bowl therapy’s effectiveness for pain relief could not be confirmed.
Another study published in the American Journal of Health Promotion in 2014 examined the benefits of starting a directed relaxation session with 12 minutes of singing bowls. A greater reduction in the systolic blood pressure and heart rate was observed as compared to the silence before a directed relaxation session.
How to use singing bowls
To create the soothing sound with a singing bowl, firmly press the accompanying mallet in the circular motion against the bowl’s outer edge or rim. When you start hearing a bright, clear tone, you can slow down the motion. You should use your full arm to make the motion, rather than just rotating the wrist. You can make the same circular motion against the outside belly of the bowl.
Where you get these bowls
The bowls are widely
available online and are also easily available at meditation centres, yoga studios and music shops. The better the quality of bowls, the better sound they produce.
Verdict
Although there is not much scientific evidence to support the healing effects of Tibetan singing bowls, there is no harm in giving it a try. You can try them to manage stress and feel relaxed.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Please consult your treating physician for more details.
