Stress Reduction Sound Bath
Hosted Monthly,
2nd Thursdays, 7:30-9pm
@Northbrae Community Church in Berkeley
Our Next Sound Bath is April 10th
Join us for an evening of deep relaxation and stress relief in the serene setting of a non-denominational, interfaith church, where stunning stained-glass windows create a peaceful, sacred atmosphere.
Guided by Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Erica Skone-Rees and musicians Bryce and Shannon, each session begins with a gentle meditation to help you settle into the space, followed by an immersive sound journey designed to move the brain into a deeply restorative theta state.
Experience the profound benefits of sound baths, which have been shown to reduce stress, calm the nervous system, and promote deep relaxation by engaging the body’s natural healing response. The rich vibrations of 432 Hz crystal singing bowls, Koshi bells (earth, water, fire, air), shamanic drums, steel hand pan drums, acoustic guitar, and more create a sonic landscape that soothes the mind and body.
Come as you are, sit or lay comfortably, and allow sound to guide you into a state of ease, balance, and renewal.
Scientific Benefits of a Sound Bath
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The vibrations of sound instruments can stimulate the vagus nerve, which plays a key role in emotional regulation, digestion, and overall nervous system balance.
Sound therapy has been linked to reducing symptoms of anxiety and PTSD by encouraging nervous system co-regulation and safety signaling.
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Studies suggest that sound healing can reduce cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
Engaging with soothing, harmonic frequencies can help regulate the autonomic nervous system, shifting from fight-or-flight to a parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) response.
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Sound baths help shift the brain from beta waves (active thinking) to theta waves, a deeply meditative state linked to creativity, relaxation, and emotional processing.
The rhythmic vibrations can facilitate states of deep rest similar to meditation and deep sleep.
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Exposure to low-frequency sound waves and rhythmic entrainment can help boost melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep regulation.
Many participants report deeper, more restorative sleep following a sound bath session.
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Sound frequencies interact with the body’s energy systems, supporting emotional release, physical alignment, and energetic clearing.
Sound therapy is used in hospitals, trauma recovery programs, and holistic wellness practices to support mind-body healing.
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Sound baths can lower heart rate variability (HRV), which is associated with reduced stress, improved heart health, and emotional resilience.
Certain frequencies, such as 432 Hz and 528 Hz, have been studied for their potential role in reducing blood pressure and promoting cardiovascular balance.
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The harmonics in a sound bath can increase dopamine and serotonin, the body’s natural feel-good neurotransmitters.
Many people experience a sense of peace, clarity, and emotional release following a session.
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Vibrational therapy has been shown to lower perceived pain levels, particularly in conditions like chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and tension headaches.
The resonance of sound waves may improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and promote cellular healing.