History of sound
“In sound we are born, in sound we are healed”.
– Mehtab Bento-
Sound has been utilized for healing purposes for ages and is deeply rooted in ancient cultures from all over the world.
Insights from ancient cultures
When we study into the ancient texts, we can observe how diverse cultures, spiritual paths, and religions all share an understanding of the world being created by sound.
Australian aboriginal tradition stated that the world was created through the sound of the didgeroo.
In the sacred Mayan text the Popol Vuh it is written that the first humans were given life through sound.
The Vedas from the Hindu tradition writes: “In the beginning was Brahman with whom was the word. And the word was Brahman” . “ Nada Brahman” - The world is sound.
The book of genesis, of the old Testament, first statements: “ And God said, let there be light”.
Sound as a therapeutical tool
Based upon the understanding that vibration was the creative force of the universe, sound as a therapeutical tool has been used ever since for healing purposes.
One of the first known instruments used for healing purposes comes from the Australian Aborigines. For more than 40.000 years, they used the didgeridoo as a tool to heal various pains such as muscle pain, broken bones and other illnesses.
The ancient Egyptians used a method called ‘toning’ to manipulate vowel sounds using breath and voice for therapeutic effects. They believed that certain tones and rhythms could impact the body's energy centers and promote healing. Instruments, including the voice and harp, were integrated into rituals and ceremonies to call upon healing energies.
Tibetan Buddhists have been using Tibetan singing bowls for a long time to create harmonic tones that assist in meditation and energetic balance.
Native American flutes have played a big role in the cultural and spiritual practices of indigenous people for centuries. They were used in various ceremonies, including healing ceremonies, tribal meetings, and spiritual gatherings. The flute’s sound was believed to be a powerful tool for connecting with the spirit- and natural world, and many believed that playing the flute could heal the body and mind.
Connecting science and ancient wisdom
The knowledge and wisdom of our ancestors about the healing power of sound is now supported by science in the growing field of vibrational medicine. It is based upon the fact that everything is in a constant state of vibration, and sound is vibration. Both science and our ancestors teach us how sound deeply affects us and can be used to heal from the inside out.
Curious about way(s) sound healing can be of support in your journey? Find out here.