Sound baths are usually done in small groups, where one or more people play an instrument while others just relax and listen. The purpose of a sound bath is to promote deep relaxation and cultivate a sense of well-being and a more expansive state of being. Stress and anxiety disappear when one blends with the many different frequencies provided by the instruments.
Sound baths do not require complex meditation. The simple power of musical instruments is sufficient for relaxation. All one needs to do is familiarize oneself with the instrument being used and understand how the sounds are produced.
In a sound bath, there is no set process by which sounds are produced. There can be an intentional crescendo through instruments and voices, or the sound bath can be intuitively guided from one instrument to another. The tones produced can be harmonic or heterophonic; what is really important is to remember that sound works. Playing instruments such as crystal mantles, drums, etc. for people who want to sit or lie down in a relaxing way will help these people to relax and gain a greater sense of space!
Typically sound baths last from 30 minutes to an hour and participants should remain in a comfortable body position, either lying down or sitting.Conducting a sound bath is easy, it just requires confidence in playing the instrument and a clear focus on providing a healthy environment for others. If you are leading participants through a complex meditation, consider playing an instrument in a simple way. Creating a stable vibrational environment for participants allows them to meditate easily without distracting them from their meditation. Simply creating a coherent sound environment can help participants focus on the meditation at hand. If the participant is meditating and you play a sound that is too complex, the sound will distract rather than assist. Even a crystal singing bowl buzzing continuously can be a great tool.