The transformative power of sound is at the heart of Sea of Sound, founded by Narissa Young, a musician-turned-sound healer.
Inspired by her experiences during neighborhood concerts and her studies in sound healing, Narissa created a space where sound is intentionally used for deep relaxation and healing. In her recent interview with MysticMag, Narissa shared how Sea of Sound utilizes vibroacoustic therapy and immersive surround sound sessions to address stress and enhance well-being.
With a mission to harness sound’s potential, she aims to help individuals reconnect with balance, creativity, and a sense of self.
What inspired the founding of Sea of Sound and what is its core mission?
When I started Sea of Sound, I was coming from a career as a musician, songwriter, and performer, which I loved. During COVID, we organized neighborhood concerts where I live, and I was reminded of the power of not just music, but sound itself. Sound has an incredible ability to quickly affect another person on a deep level. I had begun studying sound healing a few years before that, and those experiences reaffirmed that this was the path I wanted to pursue. My goal with Sea of Sound is to create more impact in the world through the transformative power of sound.
How does Sea of Sound create immersive auditory experiences for its audience?
I create intentional immersive experiences because I believe we are always immersed in sound—it’s about directing that immersion with purpose. When I have a client in the studio, I work with them to discover what they need most from a sound perspective. We begin with a voice analysis, which allows us to see what their body is communicating—specifically, the notes and frequencies they need. This helps identify areas of deficiency.
In the studio, I provide a one-on-one experience tailored to those specific needs. This involves a combination of sound baths, voice work using both their voice and mine, and sessions on the Vibroacoustic Sound Table. This table offers a full-body music experience, where clients not only listen through headphones but also feel the low vibrations resonating through their body at a cellular level. Since sound moves five times faster through water than air, the human body is an ideal medium for intentional sound work.
Additionally, the studio features immersive surround sound, which I incorporate at key points during sessions. Creating a safe, therapeutic space is always a top priority. I ensure the room is fully prepared for every client—conducting line checks, setting up instruments, and attending to every detail. This meticulous setup ensures that each client receives the deepest level of healing and the best possible experience.
What are the key features that differentiate Sea of Sound from other sound therapy services?
I love this question—it might be my favorite! In one word, the differentiator is vibroacoustic. Vibroacoustic therapy is incredibly profound in its effects and works quickly, which is one of the things that excites me most about it. It reminds me of my experiences as a performer, where I could see an immediate emotional or physical response to music, whether it was someone softening or becoming deeply moved by a song.
Vibroacoustic therapy is truly my specialty, and I feel like I’m riding a wave as more people become aware of it. There are more trainings and equipment options emerging, which is exciting. I trained with Kate Kunkel, who offers a fantastic, thorough, and therapeutic approach. It’s inspiring to see this field growing and to identify those who are doing it exceptionally well.
What sets Sea of Sound apart is my focus on using vibroacoustic therapy as a tool to address the root of many stress-related illnesses, which are pervasive in the 21st century. This method helps clients move beyond stress to a state of relaxation and healing. But it doesn’t stop there—I also work to inspire and empower others, whether by helping clients develop new practices or by consulting businesses on how to create more harmonious environments.
For example, consider a typical café with reflective glass, tile floors, and stainless steel fixtures. These materials create a “frequency storm,” with sounds ricocheting all over the space. This overstimulation can strain the nervous system, making it difficult to relax and enjoy your time. Addressing these overlooked challenges is part of my broader mission.
Ultimately, my work extends beyond individual sessions. I focus on helping clients with foundational issues like poor sleep because improving these basics leads to better creativity, decision-making, and overall life experiences. This ripple effect starts with addressing stress at its core and using sound as a powerful tool for transformation.
Can you share a success story where Sea of Sound significantly benefited a client?
Absolutely, I witness success stories all the time. Many clients experience better sleep, which is a common and vital improvement. However, one of the most profound things I hear is how they feel more like themselves after a session. That might sound simple, but it’s incredibly meaningful. Stress layers—poor sleep, digestion issues, pain, mental fog—start to dissipate during the session. Clients reconnect with how it feels to be balanced and at ease. It’s like tuning humans, bringing them back to a state where their body and nervous system feel safe and sound, which is where we’re all meant to be most of the time.
This work isn’t a one-time fix. Just like instruments need regular tuning, so do we. Vibroacoustic therapy complements other healthy practices like diet, exercise, and other therapies, creating a holistic approach to well-being.
I can also share a personal story. I had ankle surgery and was on crutches for three months. It was a slow and challenging recovery, not just for the ankle but for my whole body. I was concerned about managing pain, avoiding narcotic medications, and maintaining proper sleep and digestion during such a sedentary period.
Vibroacoustic therapy became my go-to solution. Even before surgery, while waiting for X-rays of a broken fibula, I used a vibroacoustic cushion for pain relief. Despite the doctors repeatedly offering stronger painkillers, I managed with just ibuprofen and the therapy. Post-surgery, I waited the necessary three to four days for the bleeding to subside before resuming vibroacoustic therapy.
By Day 5, I had reduced my medication intake by 75%, and it continued to decline from there. The therapy not only helped with pain management and ensured better sleep, but it also unexpectedly improved my digestion—better than it had been before the injury.
This experience reaffirmed the power of vibroacoustic therapy and its ability to support the body’s natural healing processes. It’s a testament to how this approach can significantly impact recovery and overall well-being.
How do you ensure the quality and effectiveness of the sound experiences you offer?
Ensuring quality and effectiveness begins with creating a safe and trusted environment. I check the studio space daily to ensure it’s free from interruptions like doors closing or phones ringing, as these can disrupt the experience. Once a client is on the sound table, wearing an eye mask, they’re in a vulnerable, deeply relaxed state. My priority is to maintain their sense of safety and comfort, allowing them to fully engage in the session.
A significant part of the experience involves guiding clients into a delta brainwave state, where profound relaxation or even sleep occurs. In fact, many clients fall asleep within minutes, even during the middle of the day. This is a testament to the calming and restorative nature of the sound therapy.
I’m meticulous about the sounds I choose and how I move around the client during a session. Factors like the proximity of the sound to their body and the use of brainwave entrainment techniques, such as binaural beats, are carefully considered. This work involves a delicate balance of science and intuition, and I feel deeply honored that clients trust me to work in such close proximity to their personal space.
I approach this work as a lifelong learner, always seeking improvement. Rather than collecting numerous instruments and tech, I focus on selecting the right tools that align with my philosophy of simplicity, effectiveness, and elegance. Vibroacoustic therapy embodies these principles perfectly.
To support clients beyond the session, I provide follow-up tools tailored to their needs. For local clients, I offer options to rent or purchase equipment. I also assign homework, such as listening exercises or using their own voice for healing. I often recommend nature tracks for relaxation, and some clients even incorporate tools like tuning forks or soundtracks into their workplaces.
This approach is grounded in science and isn’t a fleeting trend. It combines knowledge, technology, intuition, and heart. My intention is always to help clients feel their best, ensuring they leave sessions feeling amazing. That renewed energy positively impacts their relationship with themselves, their families, and their broader communities, creating a ripple effect that goes far beyond the individual.
What upcoming projects or innovations is Sea of Sound excited about?
There’s so much to be excited about, and the possibilities in the wellness industry feel endless. For me, it’s all about choosing the most meaningful and impactful paths. Recently, I hosted my first sound healing retreat in Greece, and I absolutely loved the experience. Due to its success, I’ll be offering another retreat there in 2025. Additionally, I’ve been invited to Bali to lead a sound healing retreat, which is incredibly exciting.
Another area I’m focusing on is consulting work. I’m deeply passionate about sharing my knowledge and training. My sound healing education was extensive—over 500 hours—and included a specialization in vibroacoustics. This allows me to confidently speak on and facilitate workshops, group events, and other initiatives related to sound healing.
One project I’m particularly excited about is a full-day tuning fork workshop specifically designed for bodyworkers. This workshop will train participants in a comprehensive tuning fork application with more than 20 points on the body. It’s set to launch either at the end of this year or in early 2025.
Looking ahead, there’s also significant potential for sound healing in corporate wellness, resorts, and broader wellness industries. I’m always brainstorming innovative ideas for group events and ways to make sound healing more accessible and impactful across various settings. There’s no shortage of opportunities, and I’m thrilled to explore them.
Find out more at: www.seaofsound.ca
