Vibrational Sound Therapy (VST) has profound effects on the body and the mind. The VST method is above all a method of relaxation, and most people will reach this state of relaxation quickly, even during their first session. During a VST session the body will go through noticeable changes as it responds to deeper and deeper states of rest. Relaxation is not only a physical state but also a state of consciousness, and VST has very strong effects on alertness and perception. Relaxation during a VST session brings on the same kind of brain states as yoga, tai chi, and meditation.
Most clients will start to relax as soon as the session begins. Their muscles will soften, and they may even start to drift into a relaxed, dreamy state within the first minutes. This relaxed state is associated with daydreaming and quiet reflection. At this point the client's breathing will start to slow down, and the body will begin to feel the waves of vibration. The slowing of breathing and lack of muscle tension are both signs that the metabolism is slowing. As the body settles, many clients notice a pleasant feeling of warmth. This relaxed state allows the body to repair itself instead of responding to outside concerns. We feel our best when we are relaxed.
VST is so gentle and relaxing that almost all people will fall asleep at some point during the session. The theta state is associated with meditation and deep relaxation. The delta state is an even deeper form of rest and is also associated with hypnosis and ritual. People naturally move between both of these states when deeply at rest. The meditative state of clients enjoying a sound massage will change naturally as positions are changed and different bowls are introduced. Small tremors and shakes are common as people enter and exit the theta and delta brain rhythms.
Those who undergo a state of deep relaxation often report a feeling of mental freshness that they carry with them after the session is over. Relaxation and meditative states of mind have also been shown to increase the threshold for emotional response, meaning they can help us control our emotional responses to outside influences. Like other kinds of meditation, sound relaxation can help us be more internally aware while being more present in the moment and more connected with our surroundings.
