04/20/2024
What happens during a gong bath? Why do we feel so relaxed? For those who have never had the experience, a gong bath is like an extended savasana while listening to the sound of the gong. During a session, the gong creates a meditative experience through a phenomenon called “brainwave entrainment” where the brain enters into a specific state necessary for release, relaxation, and healing.
There are different brainwave frequencies suited to different types of activities. Depending on what you’re doing, one frequency will be more active than others, even though they are all detectable at all times. The brainwave frequencies are as follows:
BETA - between 12.5 and 30 Hz
This is the main frequency in adults that are awake, cognizant and alert. It is the “fastest” frequency and is important for logic, reasoning, problem-solving and focus. This frequency requires the most amount of energy and can manifest as fatigue and stress.
ALPHA - between 8 and 12 Hz
This is the dominant frequency when we are feeling relaxed, like after a warm shower or during meditation. Adolescents exhibit more Alpha brainwaves than adults as it stimulates memory, learning and imagination. Our subconscious beliefs are also formed while we’re in the Alpha state!
THETA - between 4 and 7 Hz
This frequency happens mainly when we are drifting off to sleep, waking up from deep sleep, or daydreaming. This state also occurs during deep meditation and hypnosis. When in Theta, our senses are withdrawn from the outside world and we start to dream and see vivid imagery.
DELTA - between 0.1 and 3.5 Hz
Delta brainwaves are the slowest and are generated during deep, dreamless sleep. When the brain is in Delta, our body is working on healing and restoration, which is why deep sleep is important to our overall health.
During a gong bath, the first brainwave state to be reached is Alpha, as you ease into relaxation. As the experience progresses, your brainwaves slow down to theta as you enter deep meditation. When the body gets this relaxed, this travels to the core of the nervous system and the body’s functions are regulated: digestion, heart rate and blood pressure, uptake of nutrients, and hormones are all balanced. Additionally, some people may experience clarity and insight during deep meditation. There are so many benefits!