In the bustling world we inhabit, finding moments of tranquility and balance can be a daunting task. Enter Sarah Payton, a remarkable practitioner specializing in the art of sound healing and Reiki. With her unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern techniques, Sarah has become a guiding light for individuals seeking to unlock their inner harmony and tap into the profound healing power of sound and energy. Sarah’s journey into the realm of holistic healing began with a deep-seated fascination for the human body’s innate capacity to heal itself. Inspired by the ancient practices of sound healing and Reiki, she embarked on a transformative path of self-discovery and learning, delving into the rich tapestry of vibrational medicine. Her warm and compassionate approach, combined with her wealth of expertise, creates a safe and nurturing space for participants to explore and deepen their connection with the healing power of sound and energy. As we embark on a voyage into the realm of sound healing and Reiki with Sarah Payton, we invite you to uncover the magic and resonance that lies within. Join Mystic Mag, as we explore the transformative potential of these ancient practices, guided by a practitioner whose passion and expertise continue to awaken and restore individuals to their natural state of harmony. Together, let us embark on a journey of self-discovery, where sound and energy become the catalysts for healing and transformation.
As a sound practitioner, can you explain the fundamental principles or theories behind sound healing and its effects on the human body and mind?
Sound healing is based on the concept that different frequencies and vibrations can impact our mental, physical and emotional states. When vibrational instruments are played, sound penetrates our body’s tissues, cells and systems. As our brain and nervous systems process and feel these vibrations, it begins to relax. Once our nervous system enters a relaxed state (moving from fight or flight to rest and digest), the body is able to heal and start restoring balance to its internal processes.
Another fundamental principle of sound healing is resonance and brain wave entrainment. We know when we listen to music, our brain and mood can be impacted. The slower our brain waves are, the more relaxed we are. As drums, gongs or sound bowls are played, our brains synchronize with the sounds. The rhythmic patterns of the drums can support clients who’ve had a busy day come back to a place of rest. Drumming is also excellent for those with ADHD too because the brain will sync with the syncopated rhythms which can allow for more focus and clarity. Resonance alludes to the fact that our body and its systems have a natural frequency. When the body is exposed to sounds of resonance a calming effect occurs lowering blood pressure, and reduces stress hormones like cortisol.
Effects of Tibetan Music on Neuroendocrine and Autonomic Functions in Patients Waiting for Surgery: A Randomized, Controlled Study – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5859866/
Effects of Singing Bowl Sound Meditation on Mood, Tension, and Well-being: An Observational Study – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871151/
Rhythmic entrainment as a musical affect induction mechanism – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28069444/
How do you select and utilize various sound instruments or tools in your practice, and what criteria do you consider when choosing the right sound for a specific healing session?
Each sound bath session is different. I select instruments based on what I feel each client needs. As they enter the room and lay down for a session, I’m observing their language, conversation and how they are holding themselves. If a client is coming from the office and is chatting about their busy day, I will be more inclined to select the drums or a shaker. If a client is tired or exhausted and moving slow, I might start with bowls and ease them into the experience. Admittedly, I’m very empathic and I do rely on my intuition. I’m always scanning to see client’s reactions to what is being played and will change up the experience based on how their bodies are impacted by the vibrations.
What type of services do you offer?
Most commonly, I offer group sound baths, and one on one sessions. My passion is helping working professionals find alternative ways to relax and reduce stress. Additionally, I also offer reiki, workshops and art mindfulness sessions.
How do you create a safe and nurturing space for clients during a sound healing session, and what steps do you take to ensure their comfort and emotional well-being?
Creating a safe space to be relaxed enough for a meditative sound bath experience is essential. When clients enter for a sound bath, I will have music softly playing and will greet them with a friendly smile creating as much trust as possible. I make sure they are cozy and know where the bathrooms are. I encourage them to bring whatever will make them comfortable as we will be laying on the floor. Some things clients bring for example are a pillow, blanket, sweatshirt, water, socks, bolster (for under the legs helps with back issues.) Once everyone is settled, I will explain what typically happens during a sound bath and let them know what instruments I will be using. People will become sound sensitive. I explain I will be moving around the room. I also let them know what to expect at the end of the experience so they aren’t worried about falling asleep/not waking up. Not everyone feels comfortable closing their eyes in a group setting. If an intense past memory pops up or a client needs to keep their eyes open, I remind them they will still get the same benefits. They often choose to journal or meditate with eyes open. Once the experience is over and everyone is awake, we will open our eyes together and close out. I like to offer tea and remind everyone to drink a little extra water. People are often sleepy so giving them time to wake up with tea is always great.
Can you describe a unique or innovative technique or approach that you incorporate into your sound healing practice to enhance its effectiveness?
My favorite technique is to start with 478 breaths. People are busy. Most likely, they are coming from being in traffic. Encouraging everyone to breathe and slow down before a sound bath can help set the tone for relaxation. I find that this is a quick way to get people to drop in and start relaxing before the sound bath begins.
In your experience as a sound practitioner, what are some common misconceptions or misunderstandings about sound healing, and how do you address them when working with clients or educating others about this modality?
Each sound bath is different. It really depends on what has happened physically, mentally and emotionally throughout your day as to what your experience will be. Did you have a massage earlier and you are already relaxed? Or are you trying to hit project deadlines, putting out fires and balancing your family’s vacation plans? One misconception is that it will always make you fall asleep each time or will relax you instantly. Some people are chronically stressed and burnt out. They come in amped up and they are unable to relax because they are thinking about the 500 things on their to do list. This client would experience some of the benefits, but may not be able to achieve a relaxing brain wave state or sleep for their first sound bath (as they are possibly experiencing high levels of stress). If you are someone who is constantly in fight or flight, you may have to reflect on past belief systems, ask for help or take steps to slow down in order to begin to experience deeper meditation.
In order to avoid this, I often remind clients at the beginning of a session to select a word to help them focus when they are thinking about their grocery lists and other busy thoughts. Some days meditation is easy and some days not so much. Don’t give up! It may be the exact thing you need, (but take some inner work to get there.)
Sound healing is for yoga or esoteric people. Sound healing is music, notes, and rhythms. It’s beneficial for those of all backgrounds and belief systems. Regardless of spiritual or religious affiliations. Sound healing is a tool for stress reduction, selfcare, and relaxation. Some people are experiencing big emotions that they are not ready to talk about. Emoting with the sounds of a gong, drum or their voice helps express what is not easily said. This type of emotional release is priceless. Less stressed out human beings make for calm people who can listen, care for and help others. Find someone who’s aligned with you.
Sound healing lacks scientific evidence. This is the part that excites me. More studies and research are being done each day.
Effects of Singing Bowl Sound Meditation on Mood, Tension, and Well-being: An Observational Study – https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2156587216668109
Do music therapies reduce depressive symptoms and improve QOL in older adults with chronic disease? – https://journals.lww.com/nursing/Citation/2017/06000/PAIN_MANAGEMENT_Music_therapy_relieves_spinal_pain.17.aspx
The effect of low-frequency sound stimulation on patients with fibromyalgia: A clinical study – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4325896/
