Midsummer Bliss: Gong Sound Healing, Aromatherapy, and Serene Massage Modalities

by Rachel Richards

 


As the mid-August sun shines bright and the heat continues to rise, it's essential to find ways to cool our bodies and minds, promoting balance and inner harmony. For the month of August let’s explore the incredible world of sound healing with gongs and its potential to alleviate stress, anxiety, and tension. Additionally, we will delve into a refreshing aromatherapy recipe tailored for those with a pitta constitution, along with a range of massage modalities, including Sarga barefoot massage, reiki, Thai yoga, and couples yomassage, to complement your sound healing journey.

The Therapeutic Power of Sound Healing with Gongs:

Gongs have been used for centuries as therapeutic instruments, their use emits vibrations that resonate with the body's energy centers, or chakras, promoting relaxation and healing. The gentle and deep sounds of gongs can help calm the mind, reduce stress, and restore balance to the body's natural rhythms. I had the pleasure of attending my first gong bath while I was in Asheville NC a few years back. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I was excited. The vibrations from the sounds were beautiful and intense. As the first resonant tones of the gong filled the room, I felt the vibrations ripple through me. It was like being gently wrapped in a warm, soothing cocoon of sound. 

With each strike of the gong, I felt my body relax further, and my mind started to let go of the day's worries. The vibrations seemed to flow through every cell, releasing tension that I hadn't even realized I was holding. It was as if the sound was reaching places within me that had been untouched for a long time. 

I found myself drifting in and out of a meditative state, sometimes feeling weightless and disconnected from the physical world. It was a unique and almost surreal experience, as if the sound was guiding me on a journey through my own thoughts and emotions.

As the gong bath came to an end, I slowly opened my eyes and felt a profound sense of calm and clarity. It was as if a mental fog had lifted, leaving me feeling refreshed and renewed. My body felt lighter, and a deep sense of relaxation enveloped me. The world seemed to have slowed down, and I felt more present in the moment than I had in a long time.

Afterwards, as I stood up and stretched, I couldn't help but smile. The gong bath had taken me on an inner voyage that I hadn't expected, and the feelings of tranquility and serenity lingered within me. It was an experience that left me eager to explore more of the healing power of sound and its ability to create a profound sense of well-being.

Whether you attend a sound healing session in the studio or use gongs as part of your meditation practice, the experience can be truly transformative. Fall sound bath schedule will be posted soon! If you would like to schedule a gong bath for a small group email bluesagemassagestudio@gmail.com.

 

I wanted to highlight the essential oil Bergamot for August but as I was blending, I changed my mind like I often do. So instead, here is a blend designed for to cool the pitta dosha. Bergamot has been omitted because sun exposure and dermal application of this essential oil should be avoided.

Aromatic Bliss for Pitta Constitutions

For those with a pitta constitution, characterized by fire elements, keeping cool and balanced is essential during the hot summer months. Here's a refreshing aromatherapy blend created in the studio that I am happy to share with you!

Recipe: Cooling Pitta Aromatherapy Blend

  • 4 drops of Sandalwood essential oil
  • 3 drops of Lavender essential oil
  • 2 drops of Peppermint essential oil
  • 2 drops of Rose essential oil
  • 1 drop of Ylang Ylang essential oil
  • 1 drop of Vetiver essential oil

Combine these essential oils in a small glass bottle and mix gently. Add a few drops of the blend to your diffuser or mix with a carrier oil for a cooling massage.

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Complementary Massage Modalities

Pairing sound healing with gongs with a suitable massage modality can enhance its therapeutic effects. Consider the following options:

  • Sarga Barefoot Massage (Coming soon): This deep tissue massage uses the therapist's feet to provide broad, flowing strokes, perfect for releasing tension and promoting relaxation in the muscle and fascia.

  • Reiki: This ancient Japanese technique focuses on the transfer of universal energy to promote healing, balance, and well-being on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.

  • Thai Yoga Massage (coming soon): Incorporating acupressure and yoga-like stretching, Thai yoga massage helps release energy blockages and increases flexibility, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

  • Couples Yomassage: Share the healing experience with a loved one as you both enjoy a gentle and restorative massage combined with mindfulness techniques.

As mid-August just rolled in, embrace the transformative power of sound healing with gongs and immerse yourself in the world of holistic wellness. From the therapeutic vibrations of gongs to the cooling aromatherapy blend for pitta constitution, and the array of complementary massage modalities, this holistic approach will help you find balance, relaxation, and renewal amid the summer heat. So take a step towards inner harmony and embark on a journey of self-discovery through the magic of sound and touch. Prioritize time for yourself this month. Book at www.Vagaro.com/bluesagemassagestudio

 

Don’t forget to look out for our “on the mat” Sarga Bodywork and Thai Yoga Massage offerings available at the end of August!

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