humming into the new year
This Monday evening in late November as I’m sorting out my instruments for my last soundbath of the year, I feel really grateful. To everyone who has attended a session this year, whether you were a familiar face returning or someone stepping into the world of sound therapy for the first time (or even someone willing to lend a hand) - thank you. You’ve helped shape my dream into a proper thing - a really lovely thing.
As I look ahead to the new year and am planning new and different types of soundbath sessions, I’ve been diving into recent sound-related research, and the findings are exciting. Here are a few pieces that I’ll be weaving into future sessions. You might also find them useful for your own lives:
Recent studies continue to confirm that listening to binaural beats - two slightly different frequencies in each ear - can help reduce anxiety and increase focus. Certain frequencies (especially in the theta and alpha ranges) appear to support meditative states and emotional balance. Try placing your hands on your chest or stomach during listening to a 10-minute binaural beat while lying in bed before you go off to sleep. You 'll absorb the grounding tones more deeply.
Studies from environmental psychology labs show that just a few minutes of natural sound - rain, forest, gentle streams - can help restore depleted attention and boost mood. If you work at a desk, try a 5-minute ‘sound reset’ between tasks. Just type in 'calming forest sound' into Google and listen.
One of the easiest practices in sound therapy that you can use yourself is humming. Research around vagus nerve stimulation has found that humming naturally activates the vagal pathway, which helps calm the heart and mind. You can try humming for up to five minutes during stressful moments or just start your morning with this grounding approach.
Thank you again for coming to a soundbath this year. My last soundbath of 2025 will take place on Tuesday 25 November at 7pm at the German Kindergarten at 1 Corry Drive, SW9 8QS. Here’s the link to book. Otherwise, I’ll shortly announce new dates for next year.
