Did you know that Tibetan Singing Bowls are commonly used in meditation as a way to enhance spiritual growth? In many cultures, they are also considered classic instruments, and many people find their resonating music therapeutic.
The Tibetan Singing Bowl is a common sight in Nepal, where artisans have been making these instruments for hundreds of years. Because they are handmade, it is possible to own several different bowls, each with its own unique sound. As Western cultures have begun to embrace Buddhism and Hinduism, these singing Tibetan bowls have become an integral part of relaxation and meditation rituals around the world.
In his book, “Working with Singing Bowls – A Sacred Journey”, Andrew Lyddon explores the noble origins of these instruments and guides the user through the practice of using them in nada yoga – also known as “union through sound”. In his practical guide, Lyddon introduces the aspiring player to the magic of Tibetan Singing Bowls and shows how to unlock the mind through sound-enhanced relaxation techniques.
While playing a singing bowl may seem simple at first, making the sound you want can take practice. Basically, singing Tibetan bowls are played by rubbing a wooden or leather wrapped striker against the bowl until the rim vibrates, which produces a humming sound. As the bowl is still vibrating, the player touches the side of the bowl and carries the sound around the rim in varying degrees of pressure, thereby making the bowl “sing”. As the vibrations diminish, a practiced musician can learn to apply varying nuances and overtones to create a deeply resonant tone.
This hand-pounded brass Tibetan Singing Bowl measures 5-6 1/2” in diameter and comes with a wooden striker and a silk cushion. Each one is chosen for its unique harmonic overtones and mystical sound quality.
