Sound is a vital part of a healthy diet. Just like we need vibrant living foods to nourish our body, we also need harmonious sounds to feed our mind and emotions. Loud sounds can elevate our stress levels, create imbalances in our nervous system, lower our immunity and in extreme cases, cause hearing loss. When was the last time you took a break to simply shake your body while listening to your favorite song? When did you last stop to hear the chirping of a bird at sunrise?

Since the dawn of mankind, sound has been a powerful medium to gather, heal and celebrate. In ancient Greece, for instance, Apollo was considered the God of both music and medicine. Egyptians used sound therapy as an essential practice in temples. In biblical times, instruments were used to vanquish evil spirits from human souls. Native American culture also used song and dance to heal the sick. No wonder their healers would ask their patients one simple question: when did you stop dancing and singing? All these different practices and traditions share the same intention: to move us from a place of imbalance to a place of balance.

Science has now proven that music floods our brains with dopamine — the happy chemical. It also releases oxytocin, a natural painkiller and hormone that allows us to bond with and trust people — it is most commonly found in mothers during labor. By utilizing sound therapy techniques, we can become better listeners and more aware of the sounds we take in. So how exactly does sound improve our health?

Sound changes our brainwaves. When we’re surrounded by chaotic sounds (phones, honks, printers) our brain emulates these waves by activating the stress response. On the other hand, when we’re exposed to a harmonious soundscape, our brainwaves slow down. This is called brain entrainment. By using rhythm and frequency, we can influence our brainwaves and it then becomes possible to down-shift our normal beta state (normal waking consciousness) to alpha (relaxed consciousness), and even reach theta (meditative state) and delta (sleep; where internal healing can occur). Furthermore, the positive effects of sound can be maximized when used in conjunction with meditation.

Using sound as therapy can provide results for a variety of issues including:

  • Sleep disorders
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Stress management
  • Migraines and chronic headaches

The increasing scientific evidence supporting the positive benefits of sound therapy has
inspired a revival of this practice inspiring an emerging trend of classes and workshops
(commonly referred to as ‘Sound Baths’) incorporating this alternative therapy. If you suffer
from any of the above symptoms and wish to experience the direct benefits of sound therapy,
we invite you to join us for a groundbreaking event at Four Seasons Hotel Doha. For the first
time in Doha, you will finally have that much-needed space to relax with the soothing power
of live music.

Our drummers, Patrick and Daniel, will take you on a sound journey with wonderful
instruments from around the world: African Drums, Turkish cymbals, Latin-American seeds
and a majestic Hang drum. Once your brainwaves have slowed down, you will be guided on
a healing meditation that will leave you feeling calm, positive and refreshed. This is your
chance to unwind in the beautiful gardens of Four Seasons Hotel Doha.

Event information:
Sound Journey Meditation
Wednesday, April 25th 7-8pm
Four Seasons Hotel Doha
Price: QR100

To learn more visit www.evolvemindbodysoul.com

Article by:Daniel Matallana