Gong baths are held every Sunday at 4pm. The 6pm has been cancelled for now and will resume again once things return once Covid-19 measures are relaxed. We have a maximum of 10 people so we can maintain distancing. Mats are provided and are thoroughly washed down after each session but blankets, cushions and eye masks are no longer provided so please bring your own. Booking is essential.
The photo at the bottom shows a deer coming up to the window during a recent session.
Gong baths are becoming increasingly popular everywhere as many people find them helpful for stress relief or deep relaxation. It can be a profound experience and often this is difficult to describe without sounding off with the fairies. However there is scientific and metaphysical evidence in support of this ancient healing practice.
Our sympathetic nervous system is activated by any form of stress be it physical, mental or emotional) and this trips the release of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. Blood pressure, blood glucose, immune function and inflammation are immediately affected. The best way to dissipate this is through exercise but though we may be becoming more stressed many of us spend much of our time sitting. Chronic activation by stress on the nervous system and an over supply of circulating hormones create dysfunctions like high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, depression, insomnia, digestive disorders, autoimmune diseases and other maladies resulting from chronic inflammation. At this time, probably more than any other in recent years, we need to focus on lessening our stress levels.
Gong Bath are an efficacious way to do this. Bathing in the vibration of the gongs, a sea of sound is created that washes over the body and is very relaxing. In this state we activate the parasympathetic nervous system which balances and calms the over-amped, over-taxed sympathetic nervous system.
Humans are approximately 70 percent water and water serves to conduct sound waves. These ripples gently reverberate over, around and through the entire body to calm, relax and soothe. The best way I can describe it is that is is like a sound balm or a sound massage. Most peoples' heart rate slows, their blood pressure drops and breath is restored to its natural rhythm. The gong induces a holistic resonance in the body and a spontaneous meditative state in the mind, resulting in a sense of expanded awareness and wholeness. This is both restorative and healing. It is just what our bodies need.
In future posts I will look at the science behind gong baths. In summing up, the gong restores us to our natural wholeness and brings the body into resonance - harmony and balance. This state is vital for health. The most dangerous aspect to our health is stress. It can do untold damage and research is finding that it is the predominant cause of most diseases and illnesses.
Sessions are £15.
There are refreshments afterwards. These are held in another room so social distancing can be maintained. As the evenings draw in and become cooler, the underfloor heating will be put on to ensure that you are warm throughout the session and by late October the sessions will be in candlelight.
BOOKING: sarahemarten@gmail.com
