When it comes to relaxation and meditation, sound healing is one of the most effective ways to achieve those goals. Using various instruments that create sound can help calm your mind, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote better sleep.
In this blog post, we’ll look at 15 different sound healing instruments you can use for meditation and relaxation. So whether you’re just getting started with this practice or are looking for something new to try, there’s sure to be an instrument here that’s perfect for you!
1) Steel Tongue Drum
The steel tongue drum is a unique percussion instrument perfect for relaxation and meditation. These beautiful drums are made of high-quality steel and have a mellow, calming sound.
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Steel tongue drums are straightforward to play; use your fingertips to strike the tongue in the drum’s center. The drum will produce a beautiful, relaxing sound that can help to improve your mood and focus.
Steel tongue drums are becoming increasingly popular as people seek ways to relax and connect with their inner selves. If you are looking for a beautiful, calming instrument that is easy to play, the steel tongue drum is an excellent choice.
2) Tuning Forks
Tuning forks are an excellent tool for relaxation and meditation. When struck, the fork produces a beautiful, calming tone that can help to soothe the mind and relax the body.
The forks are available in a wide range of sizes and frequencies, making it easy to find one that resonates specifically with your needs.
Additionally, tuning forks can be used alone or in combination with other instruments, making them incredibly versatile. So whether you are looking to wind down after a long day or achieve a deeper state of meditation, a tuning fork may be just the thing you need.
3) Tibetan Singing Bowls
The Tibetan Singing Bowl is a mesmerizing percussion instrument used for centuries for relaxation and meditation. The bowl is usually made of bronze or copper, and it is filled with a particular type of metal ball.
When the bowl is struck with a mallet, the balls create a gentle, calming sound that can help to relax the mind and body. The bowl can also be placed on the chest or forehead, and the vibrations can help to release tension and promote healing.
The Tibetan Singing Bowl is an incredibly versatile instrument, and it can be used in various settings to promote wellbeing.
4) Hammered Dulcimer
The hammered dulcimer is a percussion instrument that originated in the Middle East. It is composed of two rows of strings stretched over a rectangular wooden frame. The player strikes the strings with small hammers, producing a clear, ringing sound. Hammered dulcimers are typically used as solo instruments but can also be played in ensembles.
The sound of the hammered dulcimer is said to be relaxing and meditative. It has a warm, beautiful tone perfect for background music or creating a calm atmosphere. So if you are looking for an instrument to help you relax and unwind, the hammered dulcimer may be a perfect choice.
5) Wind Chimes
There’s something about the sound of wind chimes that instantly relaxes the mind and brings a sense of peace. Maybe it’s the gentle tinkle of the metal rods or the way the wind seems to breathe life into them.
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Whatever the reason, wind chimes have been used for centuries as a tool for meditation and relaxation. They can also be simply enjoyed for their aesthetic beauty. Whether you’re looking to create a calm oasis in your home or want to add a touch of elegance to your garden, wind chimes are a beautiful and versatile option.
6) Hand Pan (Hang)
The hang drum is a percussion instrument with a unique, calming sound that is perfect for relaxation and meditation. The instrument is also known as a handpan, and it is played by striking the skin with the hands. The hang drum has a beautiful, soothing tone that can help to relax the mind and body.
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Scale: D#, G, A#, C, D, D#, F, G
The instrument is made from two metal hemispheres joined at the bottom. The top hemisphere has a series of tuned notes, and the bottom hemisphere acts as a resonator. As a result, the hang drum produces a rich, full sound that is truly unique. When played correctly, the hang drum can have a wide range of sounds, from gentle tones to powerful beats.
The instrument is truly versatile, and it can be used for a variety of purposes. The hang drum is an excellent choice if you’re looking to relax.
7) Kalimba
The kalimba is a percussion instrument that originates from Africa. It is also known as the thumb piano, played by plucking the metal tines with the thumbs. The Kalimba has a beautiful, calming sound that is perfect for relaxation and meditation.
The size of the Kalimba can vary, but most instruments have between 10-17 tines. The tines are tuned to create a pentatonic scale, giving the Kalimba a pleasant sound. The Kalimba is a very versatile instrument that can be played solo or in an ensemble. It is also popular for therapeutic music due to its calming effect.
8) Djembe
The Djembe is a percussion instrument with a rich history. Originating in West Africa, it was traditionally used as a part of ceremonial and religious rituals. The Djembe is unique in both its appearance and its sound. It is typically made from a single piece of wood, which gives it a beautiful natural shape.
The body of the Djembe is usually decorated with intricate carvings, and the head is covered with animal skin. This gives the Djembe a distinctive look that is both eye-catching and elegant. The sound of the Djembe is equally unique. It produces a deep, resonant tone that has a calming effect on the listener.
For this reason, the Djembe is often used for relaxation and meditation. In addition, the rhythmic quality of the Djembe’s sound can also help to induce trances and altered states of consciousness.
In short, the Djembe is an extraordinary instrument with a wide range of capabilities. So whether you are looking to relax or to explore your spiritual side, the Djembe can be an invaluable tool.
9) Gong
The gong is a percussion instrument used for centuries to relax the mind and body. Its mellow tones are said to encourage meditation and promote inner peace. Gongs are made from various materials, including bronze, brass, and steel.
The size and shape of the gong also varies, with some being small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and others large enough to fill a room. Despite its simple appearance, the gong is capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from soft and calming tones to loud and powerful ones.
Whether you’re looking to relax or energize yourself, the gong can be a beautiful and effective way.
10) Didgeridoo
The didgeridoo is a traditional Australian percussion instrument that has been used for centuries for ceremonial and cultural purposes. The instrument is typically made from a hollowed-out tree branch or stem, producing a low, resonant, calming, and meditative sound.
Didgeridoos are often decorated with intricate Aboriginal art, making them both functional and beautiful. Today, the instrument is enjoying a resurgence in popularity as people seek new ways to relax and connect with their heritage.
Whether you’re playing the didgeridoo or simply listening to its soothing tones, it’s easy to see why this unique instrument has such a special place in Australian culture.
11) Rainstick
There’s something about the sound of rain that is both calming and relaxing. So it’s no wonder that the rainstick is such a popular percussion instrument. Initially used by the indigenous people of Chile, the rainstick is a long, thin tube filled with tiny beads or seeds.
When the rainstick is turned upside down, the beads fall through the holes in the tube, creating a gentle rain-like sound. The sound of the rainstick can be used for meditation or to enjoy the beauty of nature. Either way, it’s sure to help you relax and de-stress.
12) Harp
The harp is a stringed instrument that has an elegant, relaxing sound. Its soothing tones can be used for meditation or to relax and enjoy the beautiful music.
The harp is played by plucking the strings with the fingers. Each string produces a different note; the harp can have anywhere from 23 to 47 strings. In addition, the strings are tuned to create a variety of chords and scales.
The harp also has a unique mechanism that allows the player to create vibrato and other special effects. The harp is a versatile instrument that can be used for many different genres of music, from classical to pop. Whether you’re an experienced musician or a beginner, the harp is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to relax and enjoy beautiful music.
13) Ghanta and Dorje
The Ghanta and Dorje are percussion instruments used in meditation and relaxation. They produce beautiful, calming sounds that can help to relax the mind and body. The Ghanta is a bell-like instrument, while the Dorje is a small hand-held drum.
Both instruments are made from brass, each in different sizes and shapes. The Ghanta is larger and has a more mellow sound, while the Dorje is smaller and has a sharper sound. The Ghanta is typically struck with a mallet, while the Dorje is played by hand.
When played together, these two instruments create a beautiful and relaxing soundscape that can help to calm the mind and body.
14) Tingsha Bells
There is something truly relaxing and meditative about the sound of Tingsha Bells. These beautiful little bells are traditionally used in Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies and meditation practices. They are also believed to have many healing properties.
The sound of the bells is said to help rest the mind and allow one to let go of all worldly thoughts and worries. Tingsha Bells are typically made from two small discs connected by a Leather strap or chain. They are struck together, producing a clear, high-pitched sound in the air. The sound is said to be cleansing and purifying, helping to create a sense of peace and stillness.
Whether you use them during your meditation practice or enjoy their calming influence, Tingsha Bells are a fantastic way to relax and connect with your inner self.
15) Frame Drum
The frame drum is a percussion instrument with a round frame, and a skin stretched over the top. It is believed to have originated in the Middle East and is still used in many traditional music styles today.
The frame drum is often used for relaxation or meditation, as the rhythmic sound can be very calming. In some cultures, frame drums are also used for spiritual purposes, such as shamanic healing ceremonies. So whether you are looking to relax or connect with your spiritual side, the frame drum can be a great option.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re just starting on your meditation journey or are a seasoned pro, adding some sound healing percussion instruments to your practice can be a great way to deepen your experience.
If you’ve never tried using instruments in your practice, give it a shot and see how it feels. You may be surprised at how much the addition of sound can help you relax and achieve a deeper state of meditation. Have we missed one of your favorite sound healing percussion instruments? Let us know in the comments below!
