Many people ask me this so thought it was worth a blog - I will also be adding a piece on how to integrate sound healing. In short, doing a little preparation or making a conscious transition into your sound therapy session or local sound bath will always help you get more from the journey. But, as we cannot control life, I also welcome you to come as you are and bring that to the sound!

Make a sacred transition

Before the sound I guide you centre and relax but it is helpful to create a threshold from your everyday busy-ness into this space for stillness and silence. Take your time to travel to the appointment - I always welcome people to arrive a few minutes early so they can settle in. As I generally like to listen to music in the car I find driving in silence can be really insightful. Switch off from technology in advance so you have a chance to feel into where you are at rather than taking on the impressions and opinions of others - this is especially important when we are working online and we all have a tendency to email or scroll right up to the start of the zoom session!

Set an intention

I recommend thinking about what intention you are bringing to this particular session; something personal, present and conducive to your health and healing. Intention is often thought of as words or a positive statement but I will offer you the choice to focus on a symbol, image, feeling or sound as well. To come up with your intention doesn’t mean raking the mind for ‘something brilliant’. I like to ask myself what I need before or after meditation or when walking in nature. Sit, move, breath, sound with the inquiry and see what arises, it can be very simple and even surprising.

Come as you are

People often think they have to be ‘in a good place’ to come to a sound healing (a bit like the old phrase ‘ I’m not flexible enough to do yoga’). I would always say ‘come as you are’; bring any challenges to the sound and use it as an opportunity to explore them, maybe even gaining some insight or release. Know that you are held in a safe and sacred space. I always feel that being authentic and vulnerable with ourselves are the doorway to healing.

Check what you will need to bring

What you need to bring depends upon the venue so please check before arriving. Comfort is everything when it comes to making the most of your experience, if your feet are cold and your lower back is achey it is more work than it needs to be to drop into a meditative state. You will need to wear warm layers and socks, have something to lay on, a blanket to cover the body, a cushion or spare blanket for under your head and ideally a bolster or extra cushions for under your knees to support the lower back. Some people like to use an eye pillow or scarf to shade and relax their eyes.

If you know that laying on the floor is difficult please speak to me in advance or bring extra padding like a camping roll. A chair can be provided and I have also treated people in wheelchairs and hospital beds.

Nourish your body

Please leave time to digest so that you are less likely to feel uncomfortable or sleepy when laying down. Eating fresh, vibrant foods and avoiding too much sugar and caffeine will help your mind and body settle and relax. Keeping well hydrated helps the body cleanse and repair during healing - drink water and herbal tea regularly throughout the day.

Would love to know any other tips you have for preparation.