Neurophysiological Effects of a Singing Bowl Massage

doi:10.3390/medicina58050594

Paper

Neurophysiological Effects of a Singing Bowl Massage

Published Apr 26, 2022 · Nike Walter, T. Hinterberger

Medicina

Q2 SJR score

5

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0

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Abstract

Background and Objectives: In recent years, singing bowl sound interventions have been progressively implemented in the fields of well-being, therapy and education; however, the effectiveness has only scarcely been investigated. Therefore, this study was aimed at determining neurophysiological effects of a singing bowl massage. Materials and Methods: In this prospective cohort study 64-channel EEG, ECG and respiration was recorded from 34 participants (mean age 36.03 ± 13.43 years, 24 females/10 males) before, during and after a professional singing bowl massage. Further, subjective changes in well-being were assessed. EEG data were analyzed by determining the effect sizes of distinct frequency bands. Significant differences were calculated by a two-tailed t-test corrected for multiple comparisons. Heart rate variability metrics, heart rate and respiration rate were estimated and compared. Results: Overall EEG power decreased during the sound condition compared to a task-free resting state (d = −0.30, p = 0.002). After the intervention, global EEG power was further reduced (d = −0.46, p < 0.001), revealing a decrease in the beta 2 (d = −0.15, p = 0.002) and the gamma frequency band (d = −0.21, p = 0.004). The mean heart rate was significantly lower after the intervention (75.5 ± 19.8 vs. 71.5 ± 17.9, p < 0.001) and the respiration rate higher (13.5 ± 5.3 vs. 15.2 ± 6.3, p = 0.018). 91.2% of the participants felt more integrated, 97.1% more balanced and 76.5% more vitalized. Conclusions: The neurophysiological effects of a singing bowl sound massage may be interpreted as a shift towards a more mindful, meditative state of consciousness. The intervention was perceived as beneficial for the wellbeing.

Non-RCT

Rigorous Journal

Study Snapshot

Key takeawaySinging bowl sound massage induces a more mindful, meditative state of consciousness and is perceived as beneficial for overall well-being.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

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Neurophysiological Effects of a Singing Bowl Massage

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References

Eastern Integrative Medicine and Ancient Sound Healing Treatments for Stress: Recent Research Advances.

Eastern integrative medicine techniques like yoga, sound healing, Qigong, Tai Chi Chuan, and acupuncture show potential for reducing chronic stress and improving public health.

Effects of music therapy on depression: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Music therapy and music medicine both significantly reduce depression, with music therapy showing a stronger effect and the therapy process potentially affecting the effect.

Rhythmic Mechanical Body Stimulation Improves Physical and Mental Wellbeing and Alters States of Consciousness

Rhythmic whole-body stimulation at 8 Hz improves physical and mental wellbeing, offering slightly more extended body awareness and stronger experiences of bliss compared to relaxation exercises.

Effects of singing bowl exposure on Karolinska sleepiness scale and pupillographic sleepiness test: A randomised crossover study

Relaxation above a struck singing bowl significantly reduces subjective sleepiness, particularly in women, while objective sleepiness remains unchanged.

The human health effects of singing bowls: A systematic review.

Singing bowl therapies show potential positive health effects, but more robust studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness and reduce disease burden.

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