Rest your mind, heal your body

We all know that stress can make us sick. Many people try to deal with it using medications or substances like alcohol. In the UK, over 1 in 5 women use anti-depressants for stress, as per the Health and Social Care Information Centre.

What if there was an easy and cheap way to reduce this stress without any harm? Research from Lyz Cooper at The British Academy of Sound Therapy (BAST) suggests that a short session with therapeutic sound, called a 'sound-bath,' could have long-lasting benefits.

Ever felt that cozy feeling before drifting off to sleep? When we are falling asleep, our brains go through a cycle that slows down conscious awareness to become unconscious and asleep. Between wakefulness and unconsciousness, there are various states of consciousness where the brain is aware but in a relaxed, in-between state. This is when our brainwaves are mainly in an Alpha or Theta state, which is linked to creativity, mental refreshment, cellular renewal and other positive benefits.

When we are awake and alert, our brainwaves are in a Beta state. Stimulants can induce this state, such as alcohol, nicotine, caffeine and amphetamines. Do you find yourself wanting a coffee late morning to keep you going? Your Beta brainwaves need a rest!

Prolonged activity in this brainwave state may result in stress, anxiety, high blood pressure and chronic fatigue.

Normally, we don't get to enjoy the slower Alpha and Theta states unless we're experienced meditators. Meditators aim to reach this state, but it often takes years of practice. With sound therapy, you can easily reach a deep relaxed state with a professionally trained sound therapist.

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