Nicholee Froese Nicholee Froese

How Sound Meditations Beat “Brain Drain”

Backed by neuroscience and real-world results, sound bath meditation emerges as a powerful tool for event planners aiming to elevate attendee experience. It directly combats conference challenges – mitigating cognitive overload, enhancing memory retention of session content, and igniting the creative spark that drives innovative discussions. The evidence is clear that a brief immersion in therapeutic sound can leave participants feeling more focused, refreshed, and mentally agile. 

In high-stakes academic, healthcare, and corporate conferences, attendees commonly face cognitive fatigue, information overload, and dwindling engagement as the day progresses. Research shows that tightly packed schedules leave participants tired and less able to retain information as the day wears on. Event planners are increasingly exploring wellness interventions to combat these challenges.

One promising solution is sound meditation – an immersive auditory meditation using instruments like singing bowls, gongs, and chimes to “bathe” participants in soothing sound waves. Carols of the Heart, a leader in event wellness services, specializes in bringing these sound bath experiences to conferences as a way to recharge attendee energy and sharpen focus. This blog post blends academic insight with practical guidance, presenting evidence-based support for integrating sound bath meditation into events to boost focus, enhance memory retention, and spark creativity among attendees.

The Neuroscience of Sound-Based Meditation

Modern neuroscience sheds light on why sound-based meditation is so effective at countering conference fatigue. Studies indicate that incorporating sound can rapidly guide the brain into a meditative state. Practitioners report that one can shift from normal beta brain waves (associated with active, alert thinking) into the slower theta range (deep meditative state) in as little as 30 seconds of a sound-focused meditation During a sound bath, brainwave activity entrains (synchronizes) to the soothing frequencies – shifting from the frenetic beta waves of routine thinking into alpha (relaxed, yet alert) and theta (dream-like, deeply meditative) states. This matters because alpha rhythms are linked to calm focus and creative thinking, while theta states are associated with insights and memory consolidation.

In essence, the resonant tones of instruments (like crystal or Himalayan bowls) act as a brain hack, activating the parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” response) and triggering the release of calming neurotransmitters via the vagus nerve. The result is a physiologically relaxed yet mentally awake state ideal for absorbing new information. Notably, certain sound patterns can even synchronize neural firing – for example, binaural beats (two slightly different tones in each ear) have been found to align brainwaves and induce states of calm focus. This neurological evidence establishes a foundation for the cognitive benefits of sound meditation in an event setting.

Boosting Focus & Combating Conference Fatigue

One of the immediate benefits of a mid-conference sound bath is restored focus. Traditional breaks like coffee and sugar provide only fleeting energy spikes, often followed by crashes. In contrast, sound meditation offers a restorative pause without the side effects. Clinical studies confirm that meditating with sound can significantly reduce stress and even prevent the typical post-lunch energy slump. For instance, in a controlled trial, participants who took a 30-minute sound-guided meditation break reported significantly less stress, tiredness, and negativity compared to those who meditated in silence. This suggests that the auditory component keeps minds alert and wards off the drowsiness that often plagues afternoon sessions. Another study on college students showed that a sound-centric meditation (a “buzzing bee” humming practice) led to improved attention and cognitive vigor.

Meditation in general is well-known to increase concentration – it has been found to enhance focus and attention span in young adults – but the addition of resonant sound appears to amplify these effects. By integrating a 10-15 minute guided sound bath facilitated by Carols of the Heart during mid-morning or mid-afternoon lulls, planners can effectively re-energize the room, keeping attendees attentive and engaged for the subsequent programming. The gentle acoustics not only relax muscles and ease mental tension, but also provide an “energy fix” that fights the sitting fatigue and information overload of conferences in a healthy, sustainable way. In summary, sound baths serve as a powerful antidote to conference fatigue, sharpening attendees’ focus when it starts to wane.

Enhancing Memory Retention and Clarity

Beyond boosting alertness in the moment, sound meditation can also improve how well attendees retain and recall the dense information presented at conferences. High cognitive load and stress are enemies of memory – when the mind is anxious or exhausted, it struggles to form lasting memories of content. Sound baths directly address this by inducing calm and optimizing brain conditions for learning. Research in cognitive aging has demonstrated the memory benefits of meditative practices involving sound. In one randomized trial, older adults with memory complaints who practiced a daily 12-minute Kirtan Kriya (a chant-based meditation with repeated sounds) showed significant improvements in memory and cognitive performance over 3 to 6 months.

While conference sessions are shorter, even a single session can refresh the mind. A 2021 study focusing on sound meditation in novices found enhanced short-term memory after just a brief intervention. Participants who engaged in a humming sound meditation performed better on memory tests, suggesting that sound stimulation helped “reset” and refocus their working memory capacity. The mechanism behind this may lie in the reduction of cortisol (a stress hormone that impairs memory) and the promotion of theta brainwaves, which are believed to aid in encoding new information.

When attendees are calm and their brains are in a receptive state, they are more likely to absorb keynote insights and breakout session lessons. In practical terms, adding a guided sound bath before or after an information-heavy segment can consolidate learning – attendees often report emerging from sound meditations with a clearer mind and better recollection of what they’ve heard. By improving mental clarity and memory retention, sound wellness sessions help ensure that the knowledge exchanged at your event truly “sticks” with participants.

Sparking Creativity and Innovation

Conferences aren’t just about passive learning; they thrive on networking, problem-solving, and innovative thinking. Here, sound bath meditation offers a unique catalyst for creativity. The meditative soundscape essentially frees the brain from linear, analytical thought for a few moments and encourages a more diffuse, open mode of thinking – the kind from which “aha” moments often emerge. Neurologically, as mentioned, sound-induced alpha and theta states are fertile ground for imagination and insight. Low-frequency tones have been found to increase alpha wave production (linked to creative ideation), while the overall relaxation response quiets the inner critic that can stifle originality.

Emerging evidence even suggests that sound-based practices can stimulate neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to form new connections – which underpins learning and creative problem-solving. In fact, sound healing techniques have been linked to increased creativity and cognitive flexibility, helping individuals approach challenges with fresh perspectives. For event attendees, this means a sound bath before a brainstorming workshop or innovation session could lead to more out-of-the-box ideas and collaborative breakthroughs.

Facilitators may observe that groups often come out of a sound journey with heightened mental clarity and inventive energy, feeling “unstuck” on issues that seemed difficult before. By incorporating a sound wellness break, planners signal a shift from intense focus to expansive thinking, allowing participants’ minds to reset and roam. This balance between focused information uptake and creative incubation is vital in conferences where both retention and innovation are key goals. Sound baths uniquely address both: they clear mental fatigue and set the stage for inspired thinking.

Integrating Sound Wellness into Your Next Event

Bringing the benefits of sound bath meditation to a conference is logistically simple yet yields high returns. Carols of the Heart specializes in on-site event wellness sessions that weave seamlessly into agendas.

Sound meditations are most effective when they are strategically timed to match the natural rhythms of conference participants. The best times to schedule them are:

  • Midmorning and midafternoon – when energy naturally dips and attention wanes. A post-lunch session can be especially impactful, counteracting the well-known “afternoon slump.”

  • Before or after keynotes and plenary sessions – in large rooms where the entire audience is present, the shared group energy amplifies the experience.

  • Just before breakout sessions begin – as attendees settle into their seats and wait for a speaker, a short sound meditation can focus attention and prepare minds to absorb new information.

Conversely, some times are less effective for sound meditations:

  • Early mornings or end-of-day slots, when participants are focused on personal routines, business obligations, or travel plans.

  • During refreshment breaks, when attention is divided between checking phones, networking, and grabbing coffee.

By aligning sound meditations with the natural ebb and flow of energy across a conference day, planners can ensure the sessions deliver maximum benefit—restoring focus, improving retention, and sparking creativity exactly when attendees need it most. Even a 10-minute group sound meditation in the general session room can prompt noticeable improvements in energy and mood. Participants remain seated or lay down comfortably, close their eyes, and simply listen – the immersive sound does the rest, guiding them into a state of relaxed alertness.

Feedback from past events that included sound baths has been overwhelmingly positive: attendees often describe feeling “recharged, yet tranquil” and organizers note higher engagement in subsequent panels. Importantly, sound wellness sessions are inclusive and accessible suitable for all ages and fitness levels, unlike some physical exercises. They also align with a growing emphasis on holistic well-being in professional settings, showing attendees that you value their mental health.

By partnering with experienced providers like Carols of the Heart, you ensure the session is professionally delivered and tailored to your audience’s needs (whether it’s calming academic nerves or invigorating corporate creativity). The flexibility and low overhead of sound baths make them an easy addition to conferences, turning a simple break into a strategic investment in your attendees’ focus and creativity.

A Call to Action

Backed by neuroscience and real-world results, sound bath meditation emerges as a powerful tool for event planners aiming to elevate attendee experience. It directly combats conference challenges – mitigating cognitive overload, enhancing memory retention of session content, and igniting the creative spark that drives innovative discussions. The evidence is clear that a brief immersion in therapeutic sound can leave participants feeling more focused, refreshed, and mentally agile. 

Carols of the Heart invites conference organizers in academic, healthcare, and corporate arenas to integrate sound wellness into their next event and witness the transformative impact. By doing so, you’re not just adding another activity to the agenda; you’re implementing an evidence-based strategy to improve engagement, satisfaction, and outcomes for your attendees.

In a world where attention is the new currency and creativity the competitive edge, investing in a sound bath session is a practical, credible, and innovative choice. Listen to the science – and let your attendees experience the focus, clarity, and inspiration that resound long after the final gong. Integrate sound wellness into your next conference and set the tone for success.

Interested in diving deeper into the science? Download our white paper on sound meditation for conferences for a more detailed, research-based review of how these practices enhance focus, memory, and creativity. 

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Nicholee Froese Nicholee Froese

A Holistic Wellness Gift Guide for Spiritual Healing

Discover the Perfect Gifts for Mind, Body, and Spirit

Looking for thoughtful holiday gifts that inspire healing, mindfulness, and connection? 🎁✨ In my latest blog post, I’ve curated a Holistic Wellness Gift Guide for Spiritual Healing featuring beautiful treasures like singing bowls, chakra essential oils, personalized meditations, and more.

Whether you’re shopping for loved ones or treating yourself, these items bring balance, intention, and serenity to the season. 🌿💖

The holidays are a time for giving gifts that go beyond the surface—gifts that inspire, heal, and nurture the soul. In this guide, we’ve gathered seven carefully curated treasures that support holistic wellness and spiritual healing, perfect for loved ones who value mindfulness, balance, and connection.

Each item is a meaningful way to show you care, bringing moments of peace and renewal during this busy season. Let’s explore these special gifts!

7. Ten Thousand Villages Namaste Singing Bowl

Experience the soothing resonance of the 6” Bronze Mantra Singing Bowl, a timeless tool for meditation and mindfulness. Designed to cleanse your heart, calm your mind, and nourish your soul, this bowl is adorned with Tibetan symbols of the sacred mantra Om Mani Padme Hum. This mantra means “Praise to the jewel in the lotus.” I like Jack Kornfield’s explanation that celebrates the compassion that arises when the mind (jewel) rests in the heart (lotus). Its rich, ringing tones are perfect for bringing the mind and heart together and deepening your meditation practice.

Price: $175

Why It’s Special:

  • Sustainably supports traditional artists in Nepal.

  • Promotes mindfulness and inner peace.

  • A timeless gift that encourages self-reflection.

6. DharmaShop’s Worry Stones

Bring calm and focus to your day with DharmaShop’s Worry Stones, hand-carved from smooth, polished gemstones. Designed to fit perfectly in the palm of your hand, these stones are ideal for moments of reflection, grounding, or stress relief. Simply hold the stone and gently rub your thumb along its surface to release tension and center your thoughts.

Price: $12-$14 each

Why It’s Special

  • Each worry stone has its own unique patterns and energies.

  • Small enough to carry with you wherever you go.

  • Choose the stone that speaks to you or cover all your energetic bases with the 7 chakras stone!

5. Ten Thousand Villages Meditation Cushion

Take a deep breath in… and gently release. Feel yourself rooted and grounded, yet effortlessly reaching for the sky. The Mindful Yoga Pillow, handcrafted from 100% silk, is designed to support your journey to mindfulness. Perfect for meditation, floor seating, or moments of meaningful conversation, this beautifully crafted pillow combines comfort and elegance to elevate your practice and your space.

Price: $99

Why It’s Special:

  • Elegant aesthetic that adds a touch of sophistication to any space.

  • Provides optimal support for meditation and long periods of seated comfort.

  • Creates a positive impact on an artisan community in Vietnam.

4. Plant Therapy’s Chakra Blends Essential Oil Roll-On Set

For the energy healer or balance seeker in your life, the Chakra Blends Essential Oil Roll-On Set is a thoughtful choice. Each blend is crafted to align with one of the seven chakras, supporting harmony, focus, and well-being. The roll-on format is perfect for daily use, whether at home or on the go.

Price: $59.99

Why It’s Special:

  • Supports energy alignment and balance.

  • Convenient and easy to use.

  • Complements yoga and meditation practices.

3. Ten Thousand Villages Mudra Hands Candleholder

This striking Mudra Hands Candleholder is both symbolic and functional. Representing gestures of peace and mindfulness, they’re perfect for creating a serene atmosphere. Add a softly flickering candle to inspire meditation, gratitude, or simple moments of stillness.

Price: $19.99

Why It’s Special:

  • A unique, artisan-made centerpiece for any sacred space.

  • Beautifully merges art with intention.

  • Encourages grounding and presence.

2. DharmaShop’s Sardonyx Flame of Impermanence Mala

The Sardonyx Flame of Impermanence Mala is a powerful tool for meditation and spiritual growth. Sardonyx is known for its grounding and protective properties, while its fiery hues inspire transformation and resilience. This mala is both a striking accessory and a meaningful reminder of impermanence and strength.

Price: $89

Why It’s Special:

  • Handmade with care, connecting to ancient traditions.

  • Symbolizes inner strength and transformation.

  • A perfect gift for those on a spiritual journey.

1. Carols of the Heart’s Personalized Meditation

For a deeply personal and transformative gift, consider a Personalized Meditation from Carols of the Heart. We custom create each meditation to meet the unique needs of the recipient. These meditations foster calm, clarity, and connection. Whether your loved one seeks stress relief, gratitude, or intention-setting, this gift will provide a custom experience of healing and renewal and transformation.

Price: $50

Why It’s Special:

  • Completely tailored to the recipient’s needs.

  • Encourages authenticity, mindfulness and emotional well-being.

  • A one-of-a-kind gift that truly comes from the heart.

Bundle Ideas for a Thoughtful Gift Set

For a unique and memorable gift, consider combining several of these items into a curated wellness bundle:

  • Relax & Restore Kit: Bronze Mantra Singing Bowl + Chakra Blends Roll-On Set.

  • Sacred Space Kit: Mudra Hands Candleholder + Sardonyx Mala Beads.

  • Energy Alignment Kit: Chakra Blends Roll-On Set + Personalized Meditation.

Why These Gifts Matter

In a season that can often feel chaotic, these gifts offer the opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and focus on what truly matters. They’re not just objects—they’re invitations to create space for healing, mindfulness, and spiritual renewal.

This holiday season, let your gifts reflect the care, love, and intention you hold for those who receive them.

Which of these treasures will you be sharing with your loved ones—or adding to your own wishlist? Let us know in the comments!


Disclaimer:
This blog post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. Rest assured, I only recommend products I truly love and believe in. Your support helps me continue to create meaningful content—thank you! 💖

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Nicholee Froese Nicholee Froese

How to record your first guided meditation

As long as you know a little bit about what to do and how to do it, you can record a great sounding guided meditation using either your phone or your laptop. You don’t have to break the bank purchasing fancy equipment to make outstanding recordings. In fact, assuming you have a modern phone, you can probably do it without spending a penny. This guide will fill you in on all the tips & tricks to make a professional sounding recording on a budget.

As long as you know a little bit about what to do and how to do it, you can record a great sounding guided meditation using either your phone or your laptop. You don’t have to break the bank purchasing fancy equipment to make outstanding recordings. In fact, assuming you have a modern phone, you can probably do it without spending a penny. This guide will fill you in on all the tips & tricks to make a professional sounding recording on a budget.

Microphone

When recording your meditation, the microphone is your most important tool. A higher quality microphone will do a better job of recording the nuances of your voice that are so important in guided meditations. However, the microphone technology in modern smartphones has dramatically improved in recent years. The noise cancellation and audio quality of their internal microphones make them a fine choice for recording your voice.

If you already have a quality USB microphone, by all means use it. If you want to invest in one that won’t break the bank, the Blue Yeti or Snowball are solid choices. If you’re using an USB microphone, we recommend a pop filter to reduce the distortion of sounds like “S” or “P” and help ensure a clean, professional-sounding recording.

Computer or Mobile app

To record and store your voice as a digital file, you will need to use an app on your computer, tablet or smartphone. There are a variety of free apps you can choose from. Audacity (for Windows or Mac computers) or GarageBand (pre-installed on most Apple devices) are good choices for audio recording. The free versions are good enough do the job. Here is a link for a YouTube tutorial on using Audacity to record your voice:

If you are using your iPhone to record, Voice Memos is a simple, built-in app that will work perfectly. Click here to watch a video tutorial.

Photo of a woman saying "shhh!" while recording on her laptop

Recording Environment

Good microphones pick up the nuances of your voice because they are sensitive. Unfortunately, they are also more sensitive to echo & background noises.

Recordings sound better when you make them in a quiet, smallish space that already has a lot of materials that absorb sound (i.e. carpets, rugs, couches, beds, clothes, etc.). Bedrooms or walk-in closets are ideal. Or, you can build yourself a pillow fort, although any acoustic gain is lost if the kids or dogs are climbing all over it!

Eliminate any background noise you have control over. That means:

  • Turning of fans (even ceiling fans) and any other machines that generate an audible noise or hum

  • Putting your cell phone on Do Not Disturb

  • Asking anyone else in the house to be as quiet and still as possible, pets included (If my dogs are being particularly naughty, I break out the shockless bark collars and lock them on another floor!)

  • Record at a time when your neighbor’s dog is not outside barking insanely (speaking from personal experience!) and there are not planes landing every 3 minutes.

  • Pausing and trying again in a bit if there are sirens upon sirens going by or the lawn care company is working across the street

Photo of a woman meditating

Your Voice

Your voice is what will set your guided meditation apart. Here are a few tips to help you sound your best:

  • In order to sound calm & relaxed when you record your voice, you should BE calm & relaxed! Before you begin, do a grounding exercise, breathwork or meditation to get in the zone.

  • We recommend using a script. Make sure you have practiced it enough that it flows naturally and you are not stumbling or hesitating when reading it.

  • Speak slowly and clearly. This will help your listeners follow along with your meditation and stay relaxed. Try speaking even slower than you think you should.

  • Sit upright and breathe softly, but deeply. This will help ensure adequate pauses between phrases and consistent volume (your voice won’t be trailing off as you run out of breath).

  • This is not the theater. You do not have to project your voice for the mic to pick it up clearly. Speak softly & gently, but clearly.

Setting the Gain or Mic Sensitivity and Position

If you’re using a USB mic, it's important to make sure it’s stable & protected from unwanted vibrations. Holding the microphone in your hand or placing it on your desk can result in mechanical noises, which can negatively impact the quality of your recording. A good microphone stand will help you to avoid these issues and create a higher quality recording.

If you’re recording with your phone, it is ok to hold it in your hand if that’s more comfortable for you since modern smartphones mics eliminate unwanted noises. But definitely keep it as still as possible. Speak into to mic at the bottom of the phone.

Being close enough to the mic (but not too close) helps reduce background noise & echo in your meditation recording. If you’re too far away, you’ll pick up more background noise. If you’re too close, you’ll hear the inside of your mouth. Ideally, your microphone should be about 4 to 6 inches away from your mouth.

If you are recording with your iPhone on Voice Memos, there is no way to manually adjust the mic sensitivity. The trick on getting the right recording level with this method is just adjusting how close you have the phone to your mouth.

If you are recording with a USB mic that has a gain knob, you will need to adjust it for optimal sensitivity to pick up your voice to not be too loud or too quiet. If you’re recording in a program like Audacity or GarageBand, you can adjust the mic sensitivity on a slider in the program. These programs also have monitors that show you how loud your recording is.  Your gain or mic sensitivity should be adjusted so that the audio level bouncing around -12 dB on the monitor.

It saves a lot of time if you do a test recording and check how it sounds before you record the whole mediation. Using decent quality headphones to listen to the playback will help you know if everything sounds good. Listen to the playback at between 50% to 75% of full volume. You should be able to hear clearly and it should sound loud enough at this level.

Pause & Resume Recording, Clap Twice When You Mess Up

While you are recording, you’ll likely need to take deep breaths, wait for a plane to fly over, take a sip of water, or readjust your position. When you feel the need to do this, we recommend pausing the recording & resuming when you’re ready. This will make the editing process a lot easier by eliminating long gaps & reducing the chance that a disruptive sound makes its way into your final product.

It’s inevitable that you will fumble a few words here and there, but it doesn’t mean you need to start the meditation over from the beginning again. If you mess up, just clap loudly twice & it will be obvious where edits are needed.

So, that is it! You are ready to record your first guided meditation! If you are interesting in having us professionally edit, mix & master your meditation with custom healing sounds, click the link below to place an order.

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Nicholee Froese Nicholee Froese

Top Picks for a Home Sound Meditation Practice

You don't have to spend a lot of money or have a lot of technical skills to create a home sound meditation practice. This post will help you find a quality instrument or two that appeal to you. All instruments are quality tested and approved. Some are even ones I use in my professional practice!

If you’re interested in incorporating healing sound into your self-care routine, you may find yourself overwhelmed with the variety of instruments from which to choose. Do you really have to spend hundreds of dollars on instruments? How can you be sure which instruments have beautiful sounds and which ones are cheap imitations? Which instruments are suitable for a true beginner to create beautiful, soothing sounds?

While the answer to which instruments will resonate best with you is very personal, we do have answers these other questions! You absolutely do not have to spend a ton of money to assemble an assortment of instruments that will allow you to experiment with different sounds and techniques in your home practice,

Listening to a sound file of the instrument being played is a helpful, but not foolproof, tool in making a decision if an instrument is right for you. Many reputable shops for professional quality sound healing instruments have sound files available for the instruments they sell. But these professional quality instruments do tend to be quite expensive. And more cost-friendly instrument sources like Amazon tend not to include this feature. We have included links to sound files for instruments that have them and created sound files for those that don’t.


So here at Carols of the Heart, we have done the homework for you! We have purchased, tested, and approved (or not! We sent several back…) a wide variety of high quality, inexpensive sound healing instruments. All of these instruments are not just easy to play, but easy to use to create beautiful sounds. Some of these instruments are the same ones we use in our professional sound baths. Some are more perfectly suited to a home practice.


So let’s start with the Top 10 Under $100:

  1. Koshi Chime (Earth, Fire, Water, Air): Definitely a crowd favorite. Each chime creates pure elemental balance in sonic form. We use these delicate sounding chimes to close almost every sound bath. They are so easy to play, they practically play themselves! 🔈

  2. 16” Remo Buffalo Drum: This drum is inspired by the indigenous cultures of the Americas. It has a powerful bass voice. It is vegan, has a rope handle, and comes with a mallet. We use this drum in most of our sound baths. 🔈

  3. Hokema B9 Kalimba: A wonderfully handcrafted thumb piano with clear, resonant tones made in Germany from solid American cherry. This gem has 9 notes in A minor and is ideal for beginners. 🔈

  4. Namaste Himalayan Singing Bowl: Often used for meditation, the music of a singing bowl is meant to soothe your soul, cleanse your heart and free your mind of worries. This small bowl has a bright clear voice for both ringing and singing. 🔈

  5. Topfund 8” Frosted Crystal Singing Bowl: These beautiful instruments produce a rich, resonant sound when struck or sung with a mallet. They are the centerpiece of most sound baths. Topfund is a reputable entry-level brand. 🔈

  6. Topfund 6” Crystal Singing Pyramid: Singing pyramids are amazing to use during sound healing because the sound resonates from each edge of the pyramid giving it complexity and depth. Give the pyramid a gentle spin to experience a vortex of spinning sound that can be both heard and felt. 🔈

  7. Lovetuner: The Lovetuner is a revolutionary mindfulness tool that connects your breath with a low volume audible sound at the frequency of 528 hz – also referred to as the Love Frequency. It is sound healing and breathwork all rolled into one tiny device you can wear around your neck! 🔈

  8. 16” Remo Nightwave Ocean Drum: This vegan drum recreates the soothing sounds of both rolling and crashing waves as you gently tilt it side to side. We regularly use this drum in our sound baths. 🔈

  9. Angel Tuning Forks: Experience celestial harmony through high-frequency angelic vibrations as they resonate through your body, mind, and spirit, promoting balance, relaxation, and a deep sense of well-being. These tiny li’l ones are too cute! 🔈

  10. Music Maker Lap Harp: This harp’s gentle tone is perfect for sound meditation at home. (P.S. You will need to tune the harp, which is not hard, for it to sound good.)

But you don’t even have to spend half that to get some really great instruments! This next list is our Top 10 Under $50:

  1. TreeWorks Small Cluster Chime: These chimes have a clear, bright tone. They make a delightful sound with just a small amount of movement. We use them regularly in our sound baths. 🔈

  2. 8” Waterfall Disk: The beauty of the waterfall disc is that it keeps making the sound of falling water as long as you keep turning it! Like a rainstick that never ends. Perfect for meditation as the repetitive movement and sound are soothing, almost hypnotic. 🔈

  3. 31” Meinl Bamboo Rainstick: Create the natural sound of flowing water by gently angling to sound like a small stream or tipping all the way for a rushing monsoon effect. It has a ten to twenty second sustain depending on the angle. 🔈

  4. Woodstock Zenergy Trio Hand Chime: This trio hand chime produces clear tones and lovely harmonies. A gentle tap of the mallet emits powerful tones of singular beauty that last and last. 🔈

  5. Ocean Sounds Drum: As a general rule, the smaller the ocean drum the harder it is to control the sound (my favorite one is 20” diameter). However, with this mini-me, the extra concentration required to create the soothing ocean sound actually adds to the meditative experience of playing the drum! 🔈

  6. Riverflow Bell Chime: The ethereal sound of the riverflow bell chime ripples like a gentle stream. These chimes evoke the steady flow of water over stones—peaceful, timeless, and alive. This precious sound invites you to pause, listen deeply, and feel connected to the rhythms of nature. 🔈

  7. Meinl 6” Steel Tongue Drum: Unlike many no-name steel tongue drums, the tone of mini-drum is ethereal and melodious. It is fun & easy to play with the included mallets. Another soothing way to play this drum is to put a few bouncy balls inside it, turn it upside-down and swirl it around. The balls play the drum from the inside! 🔈

  8. 4” Remo Thunder Drum: You (and your dogs) will be surprised a the deep thunderous roar that fills the room when you shake this instrument. Play with a rainstick to create a thunderstorm effect. 🔈

  9. Tingsha: Tingsha bells produce a mesmerizing and soothing sound that resonates with clarity and purity. As you strike the cymbals together, the sound creates a focus point for your attention. 🔈

  10. 20-Note Tabletop Chime: The sweet cascading sound of this chime transports you to heavenly realms. Sweep your finger across it and see where it takes you! We use these regularly in our sound baths. 🔈

We hope this information helps get you started with your home sound meditation practice. Stay tuned for demonstrations and more information about how to use these instruments!


Click to download the Top Home Instruments PDF Guide.

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