I had been meaning to write about my experience for some time now and finally had the chance to put my thoughts into words. Last year, I had the opportunity to work with the Rider University Counseling Center. It was such an incredible and humbling experience. Without further adieu, read on!
Finals season. Two little words that strike fear into the hearts of even the most seasoned student. The pressure to cram information, pull all-nighters, and perform at peak capacity can leave everyone feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and frankly, fried. This year, I had the privilege of offering a unique solution to this well-documented phenomenon – a sound healing session designed to help students at Rider University de-stress and recharge before their final exams.
The idea stemmed from my own experiences with sound therapy. As a long-time practitioner, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of sound vibrations to promote relaxation, focus, and overall well-being. Knowing the immense pressure students face during finals, I envisioned creating a space where they could escape the academic whirlwind and reconnect with themselves.
With the enthusiastic support of the Rider University Counseling Center, the sound healing session was scheduled for a quiet evening just before the final exams began. The venue – a spacious room in the student center – was transformed into a haven of tranquility. Yoga mats were laid out, soft lighting cast a calming glow, and the gentle aroma of lavender essential oil filled the air.
As the students arrived, many with weary eyes and furrowed brows, I greeted them warmly and explained the concept of sound healing. There was a mix of curiosity and skepticism, but everyone seemed open to the experience.
The session began with a guided meditation. I led the students through gentle breathing exercises, encouraging them to focus on their breath and release any tension they were holding onto. The soft hum of a Tibetan singing bowl served as a gentle anchor, guiding them further into a state of relaxation.
Once everyone was settled, I introduced my collection of singing bowls. These beautiful instruments, crafted from various metals, produce a range of rich, resonant tones when struck with a mallet. As I carefully struck each bowl, the room filled with a symphony of sound – some tones deep and grounding, others high and ethereal.
The students were visibly affected by the sounds. Some closed their eyes and drifted deeper into meditation, while others fidgeted less and their facial expressions softened. The initial nervous energy in the room began to dissipate, replaced by a palpable sense of calm.
As the session progressed, I incorporated other sound healing tools, including chimes, rain sticks, and ocean drums. The combination of these instruments created a soundscape that was both soothing and stimulating, lulling the students into a state of profound relaxation.
When the final note faded away, there was a moment of blissful silence. Then, a collective sigh of contentment rippled through the room. Students slowly opened their eyes, faces visibly relaxed and expressions remarkably different from when they had first arrived.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Students shared how the session had helped them release pent-up tension, improve their focus, and feel more prepared to tackle their exams. One student even commented that it was the first time in weeks they hadn’t felt the urge to check their phone!
Witnessing the transformation in these students was incredibly rewarding. It highlighted the power of sound healing to provide a much-needed escape from the pressures of academic life and create a space for students to reconnect with their inner peace.
Finals season may be inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be a recipe for stress. By incorporating practices like sound healing into their well-being routines, students can approach exams with a calmer mind, a clearer focus, and a renewed sense of resilience. And who knows, maybe the soothing sounds of a singing bowl will become a cherished memory alongside the academic achievements of their final exams.
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If you would like to hold your own session for students, staff or your employees, please don’t hesitate to reach out and learn more at our Group, Corporate and Staff-Wellness page. I can be reached at 646-535-7685 or by email at amrita@reikiandsoulhealing.com.
by Heart Light Digital 