Hughes Hall Music presents .... Gong Bath Session

Following on from Mental Health Awareness week (9-15th May), Hughes Hall music invites college members to a Gong Bath session - a type of inactive meditation, where you 'bathe' in the healing vibrations of sound. Led by practitioner Emma Marshall, this immersive session is open to to all and the list of regularly reported benefits include:

List of regularly reported benefits include:

* Reduced stress, depression and anxiety

* Better sleep

* Relief from physical pain

* Improved mood

* Emotional release

* Improved focus and clarity

* Creative insights

* Deep feeling of peace

* Spiritual experiences

The group session will last approximately an hour and fifteen minutes. Whilst previous experience of gong baths are not necessary, it is important to read the guidelines before signing up.

Gong Bath Information and Guidance Sheet

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION CAREFULLY

Welcome and thanks for thinking of signing up!

Gong baths are not suitable for those with the below conditions/interventions:

• First trimester of pregnancy
• Pacemaker
• Epilepsy when sound is a trigger

Below is a list of conditions/interventions where you may wish to consult with your healthcare professional for advice before attending, particularly when a condition/intervention is new or recently diagnosed. You are welcome to ask me any questions or share anything you feel is relevant.

• Metal implants
• Hearing aids
• Tinnitus
• Epilepsy
• Migraines
• Open wounds
• Permanent nerve damage
• Bipolar disorder
• Aspergers/autism
• Any new psychological disorder that you have received treatment/Medic*tion for within the last six months

Please note: A gong bath is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional treatment and care.

Here is some information to help you get the most out of your upcoming gong bath experience:

Preparation

• Avoid alcohol, try to avoid sugar and caffeine, and drink plenty of water on the day of the gong bath. • Avoid heavy meals within two hours beforehand.

What will happen

We will start the session in a seated position for a simple breath and relaxation practice for around 15-25 minutes to prime our bodies for the gong bath. Then you will lie down if this is comfortable for you while I play the gong for around 45-55 minutes. Please make your comfort your utmost priority as this will affect what you get from the experience.• For sitting comfortably, a block or pillow to elevate the hips so that the knees are lower than them can be helpful. There are also chairs available. The typical lying down position for sound baths is the yoga pose savasana, lying on your back allowing the legs and arms to drop open. It is the position for total relaxation. However, 45 minutes in this position can cause discomfort or pain. Bolsters under the knees alleviate pressure on the lower back. You know your body best so bring whatever you need. Of course you can choose and adjust your position at any time during the session too. • I also suggest having a blanket or duvet between your back and the floor for extra warmth. Your body temperature will drop as you relax.

What to bring

Please take the utmost care to ensure that you are comfortable and warm. The heating will be on in cold weather but your body temperature will drop as you relax and you will be lying still for a long time. The more comfortable you are the better your experience will be. Don't be shy about bringing whatever you need Think cosy cocoon!

Essentials and suggestions include:• Wear comfortable clothes, layers in cold weather.• Something comfortable to lie on for example a yoga mat, self-inflatable camping mat, air bed (the majority of people are not comfortable on a thin yoga mat for the length of time you will be lying down. • Blankets for beneath and on top of your body• Pillow for head and possibly to sit on• Eye mask or other form of covering (can really enhance the experience)• Bottle of water (it is common to feel thirsty after a sound bath)• A simple snack can be helpful for grounding after• Feel free to bring any crystals and talismans you feel connected to

If you would like further information on the practise and benefits of gong baths you might like to read this article: https://www.healthline.com/health/gong-bath#what-are-they

Any questions? Please feel free to ask Emma at [email protected]

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Pavilion Rm, Hughes Hall,, Wollaston Rd, Cambridge, United Kingdom