The healing power of sound has been recognized for thousands of years, and this article provides details of extensive research illustrating the effect of different instrumental and vocal sounds on the cells, tissues and organs of the body, which themselves possess individual resonant frequencies and musical notes.

As shown by Dr Alfred Tomatis, the ear is an extremely important sense organ, with nerve connections to numerous other organs and muscles in the body. Sound, particularly the human voice, has been found at certain frequencies to break up cancer cells, and Fabien Maman used Kirlian photography to show changes in the electromagnetic fields around cells in terms of shape and colour. Music, particularly classical, has also been found to have widespread beneficial effects on health, such as improving concentration, calming babies in the womb, lowering the breathing rate, promoting positive emotional experiences, and reducing anxiety and pain.

The author discusses the power of toning and chant, and describes the principles behind sound healing, such as entrainment, intention, sympathetic resonance and pure tone.

The author outlines his own sound healing methodology, in which he uses his voice to scan over the body and locate problem areas and then uses different tones, vowel sounds and harmonics to clear the imbalance. Sound therapy is very versatile, so voice can also be combined with instruments, sound can be used in conjunction with bodywork, and patients can be encouraged to express their pain through sound. Tuning forks and dissonant musical intervals can also be used.

Sound healing has been found to promote deep relaxation and emotional release, as well as improvements in the functioning of the mind and body.

The article is supported by comprehensive references.

The author is a qualified acupuncturist, healer and bodyworker and is founder of the UK Sound Healers Association. He runs sound healing workshops and training courses for healers and therapists and is the author of several books. Contact details are provided for obtaining workshop details and a sound healing information pack.