Sound healing is all about using the power of sound to help us feel calm and balanced. Imagine listening to soothing music or gentle chimes that make you feel instantly relaxed; that’s what sound healing is all about. It involves different instruments that produce comforting sounds, helping to reduce stress, improve sleep, and boost your overall well-being.

Whether you're new to sound healing or a seasoned enthusiast, there are many beautiful instruments to explore. Each one creates unique sounds that resonate with your body and mind, offering benefits from deep relaxation to emotional healing. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to different sound healing instruments, explaining what they are, how they work, and how they can enhance your relaxation and therapeutic practices. Let’s learn about these amazing tools and see how they can enhance your relaxation and well-being!

What is Sound Healing?

Sound healing is a practice that uses various sounds and vibrations to promote relaxation and improve overall well-being. It works by harnessing the natural power of sound to help reduce stress, calm the mind, and support emotional and physical healing. Through the use of specific tones and rhythms, sound healing can create a peaceful environment that encourages deep relaxation and helps balance the body's energy.

How Sound Healing Instruments Work

Sound healing instruments create specific vibrational frequencies that resonate with our bodies and minds. These vibrations can influence our physical, emotional, and spiritual health by affecting our brainwaves, heart rate, and energy levels. The gentle sounds produced by these instruments can help release tension, promote emotional clarity, and align our energy. By tuning into these frequencies, we can create a harmonious environment that supports healing and relaxation.

What Instruments Are Used in Sound Healing?

Tibetan Singing Bowls

Tibetan Singing Bowls are ancient instruments from the Himalayan region, known for their beautiful and calming sounds. Made from a blend of metals, these bowls produce a soothing tone when you gently rub a mallet around their edge or tap them. The sound they make is deep and resonant, which many people find incredibly relaxing.
These bowls are great for helping you relax and balance your energy. They’re often used in meditation, Reiki, and sound baths to calm both the mind and body. Because they can produce a variety of tones, they’re popular with sound healing practitioners for their ability to encourage deep relaxation and energy alignment.

Tibetan Singing Bowls have a rich history in Tibetan Buddhism, where they were used in ceremonies and spiritual practices. They’re easy for beginners to use; just strike or circle them with the mallet. They come in different sizes and are portable, so you can enjoy their calming effects anywhere. Their unique, resonant tones make them a special tool in sound healing.

2. Crystal Singing Bowls

Crystal Singing Bowls are made from pure quartz crystal and are known for their clear, high-pitched sounds. When you strike or play them with a mallet, they produce a beautiful, resonant tone that many people find both uplifting and soothing.

These bowls are especially valued for their ability to help clear energy blockages and align with specific chakras. They are commonly used in crystal healing, meditation, and sound baths to create a calming environment that promotes deep relaxation and balance.
Though Crystal Singing Bowls have gained popularity in modern spiritual practices, especially for chakra tuning and energy work, they do require some practice to master. They are generally larger and less portable than some other instruments, but their pure, resonant sound is worth the effort. Made from quartz crystal, they enhance energy flow, making them a powerful tool for healing and relaxation.

3. Tuning Forks

Tuning forks are simple metal tools that create clear, precise sounds when struck. They’re known for their ability to produce consistent, pure tones that can help balance energy and ease physical tension.

In sound healing, tuning forks are often used in Reiki and physical therapy to help align and balance the body’s energy. They’re popular in both medical and spiritual settings because they effectively promote relaxation and healing.

Originally designed for scientific use, tuning forks have become a staple in holistic healing practices. They’re easy to use once you get the hang of it, and their small size makes them convenient for various therapeutic routines. Typically made from aluminum or steel, they produce a clear, resonant sound that enhances their healing effects.

4. Gongs

Gongs are large metal discs that produce deep, resonating tones when struck. They come in different types, like the classic Chinese gong, Tibetan gong, and symphonic gong, each with its own unique sound and purpose.
These gongs are great for helping people relax deeply and clear their minds. Their powerful, reverberating tones are often used in sound baths to create an immersive experience that helps with relaxation and finding inner peace.
Gongs are a popular choice for group healing sessions because their sound can fill a room and create a profound experience. They also hold cultural and spiritual significance, especially in Asian traditions where they’re used in ceremonies and rituals.
Playing a gong does take some skill and strength to get the right effects. They are usually large and not very portable, but they’re perfect for creating a strong sound experience in a dedicated space. Made from brass or bronze, gongs are known for their deep, resonant tones that greatly enhance relaxation and healing.

5. Didgeridoo

The Didgeridoo is an ancient wind instrument from Indigenous Australian cultures, known for its deep, droning sound. It creates a continuous, soothing drone that many people find calming and grounding.
In sound healing, the Didgeridoo is especially useful for practices involving breath control and grounding. Its unique sound helps center the mind and improve breathwork, making it popular in therapies focused on deep breathing and relaxation.

While it’s a powerful tool in breath-focused therapies, learning to play the Didgeridoo can be challenging for beginners. It requires a special technique called circular breathing, which allows the player to keep a steady sound going. Mastering this technique can take time, but the meditative, rich sound is worth the effort.

Culturally, the Didgeridoo holds a special place in Aboriginal traditions and has been used in ceremonies and rituals for thousands of years. Traditional Didgeridoos are made from eucalyptus wood, though modern versions might use PVC or other materials. Due to its length, it’s not the most portable instrument, but its deep, resonant sound makes it a significant tool in sound healing practices.

6. Handpan (Hang Drum)

The Handpan, also known as the Hang Drum, is a modern steel drum that creates beautiful, soothing sounds. Its unique shape allows it to produce calming tones, making it perfect for relaxation and meditation.

Playing the Handpan can help calm the mind and create a peaceful atmosphere. Its melodic sounds are ideal for setting a serene mood during meditation or whenever you want to unwind.

Though the Handpan is a new instrument and not tied to any specific culture, its lovely tones have quickly gained popularity in sound healing. It's portable and easy to carry around, adding a calming touch to your relaxation routine. Just remember, it takes a bit of practice to master its melodic tones.

Made from steel, the Handpan offers a rich, resonant sound that many find soothing. It’s a versatile and approachable instrument for anyone looking to enhance their relaxation with beautiful, melodic sounds.

7. Drums (Frame Drum, Djembe, Shamanic Drum)

Drums like the Frame Drum, Djembe, and Shamanic Drum are powerful tools for connecting with rhythm and vibration. Each drum has its own unique sound and purpose in sound healing.

These drums are excellent for grounding and emotional release. Their deep, rhythmic beats can help you stay centered and release pent-up emotions. They are often used in shamanic and rhythmic sound healing to create a sense of connection and flow.

In traditional healing ceremonies, drums are highly valued for their ability to create transformative experiences. They hold significant cultural and spiritual importance in many indigenous cultures around the world.

Drums are generally beginner-friendly and easy to pick up, though mastering their rhythms can take time. They come in various sizes and are often portable, making them versatile tools for both personal and group sound healing sessions. Typically made from skin, wood, and metal, their acoustic qualities provide a rich, resonant experience that enhances the overall healing process.

8. Rainstick

A Rainstick is a hollow tube filled with small beads or pebbles that create a soothing rain-like sound when you tilt it. As the beads slowly move through the tube, they make a gentle, cascading sound that mimics rainfall, helping you relax and feel calm.

In sound healing, Rainsticks are often used in sound baths, meditation, and nature-inspired therapies. Their calming sound can help reduce stress, ground the listener, and bring a sense of peace and connection to nature.

Rainsticks come from indigenous cultures in South America, where they were traditionally used to call for rain. They are very easy to use, just tilt the stick and you will hear its relaxing sound.

With their soft, gentle tones, Rainsticks are perfect for creating a peaceful atmosphere. They are usually mid-sized and easy to carry, making them a convenient choice for sound healing. Traditionally made from cactus stems and filled with pebbles or beans, the natural materials give the Rainstick an extra grounding effect.

9. Chimes

Chimes are a profound tool in sound therapy, celebrated for their clear, resonant tones that foster relaxation and spiritual harmony. Unlike wind chimes that play with the wind, individual chimes are typically struck manually, allowing for more controlled and intentional use in therapeutic settings.

In sound healing, chimes are often used in practices like yoga, meditation, and energy work to lift the listener’s energy and create a sense of balance. Their gentle sounds help people focus, making them a popular choice in both personal and professional healing settings.

Chimes can be strategically utilized in sound therapy to enhance the therapeutic experience. Therapists might introduce them at the start of a session to establish a calming atmosphere or use them selectively to guide clients through meditation or visualization exercises. The clear tones of chimes are also perfect for gently closing sessions, helping individuals transition back to their daily routines while retaining a sense of peace and centeredness.

By incorporating chimes into sound healing practices, therapists offer an enriching auditory experience that promotes profound relaxation, elevates mood, and creates an environment conducive to mental and emotional healing

10. Ocean Drum

The Ocean Drum is a unique instrument filled with small beads that move as you tilt it, creating the soothing sound of gentle ocean waves. This calming sound can instantly transport you to a peaceful beach, making it perfect for creating a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere.

Its wave-like sound is ideal for helping people relax or fall asleep and is often used in guided meditations for relaxation. Many people love using the Ocean Drum in therapy sessions when they need deep, refreshing calm.

The Ocean Drum also holds a special place in ceremonies that honor nature, especially water. It's incredibly easy to use, and beginners can create peaceful sounds by gently tilting it.

In terms of sound, the Ocean Drum produces a deep, rolling wave-like tone. It's medium-sized, lightweight, and easy to bring along to sound healing sessions. Most Ocean Drums are made from wood, plastic, and synthetic materials, which makes them both durable and great for producing high-quality sound.

11. Kalimba (Thumb Piano)

The Kalimba, also known as the Thumb Piano, is a charming African instrument with metal tines that you pluck with your thumbs to create lovely melodies. Its soft, soothing sounds are perfect for calming your mind and relaxing your emotions.

In sound healing sessions, the Kalimba is great for personal sound therapy and emotional healing. Its soft, melodic tones are perfect for creating a peaceful atmosphere and enhancing the overall therapeutic experience. Its simple design and beautiful sound have made it increasingly popular recently.

Originating from sub-Saharan Africa, the Kalimba has a rich cultural history. It was traditionally used in storytelling and rituals, adding a deep sense of history to its musical charm.

The Kalimba is easy for beginners to play. Just pluck the tines to make sweet melodies. Its small size and portability make it convenient to carry around and use in various settings. Made from wood and metal, the Kalimba produces soft, melodic tones that are both relaxing and uplifting.

12. Tongue Drum

The Tongue Drum is a unique steel drum with slits, or "tongues," cut into its surface. When you strike these tongues, they produce a range of calming, melodic tones. This design makes the Tongue Drum excellent for meditation and stress relief.

In sound healing sessions, the Tongue Drum is often used to create meditative soundscapes and in rhythmic sound healing practices. Its soothing tones help promote a sense of peace and balance, making it a valuable tool for many therapeutic routines.

Although it's a modern instrument, the Tongue Drum has quickly become popular because of its distinct sound and ease of use. It's versatile and fits well into various spiritual practices aimed at calming and centering the mind.
The Tongue Drum is beginner-friendly. Playing it is simple, whether you use mallets or tap it with your hands. It comes in different sizes, with many being portable, so you can easily take it to different places. Made from steel or metal alloys, it produces soft, resonant tones that enhance relaxation and stress relief.

13. Harp

The Harp is a beautiful and graceful string instrument with a large frame and many strings. When you pluck these strings, they create rich, soothing sounds that can help with emotional stress and calm the mind.

The Harp’s gentle and flowing melodies are great for easing emotional stress and promoting relaxation. Sound healing sessions, help create a peaceful environment, making it easier to relax and heal emotionally.

You’ll often find the Harp in classical music and therapy settings because of its lovely, soothing tones. Its long history in many cultures shows how it has been used for healing and ceremonies for centuries.

Playing the Harp can be a bit tricky, especially with larger instruments, so it may take some practice for beginners. Harps are usually quite large and stationary, but smaller, more portable versions are available. They’re traditionally made of wood and have nylon or gut strings, which give them their unique and calming sound.

14. Koshi Chimes

Koshi Chimes are beautifully handcrafted instruments that produce soft, melodic sounds. Each chime is tuned to represent one of the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. Their soothing tones help create a peaceful and calming atmosphere, making them perfect for meditation and relaxation.

In sound healing sessions, Koshi Chimes are often used in sound baths and yoga classes to enhance the environment and promote deep relaxation. Their gentle, harmonious sound makes them a favorite for those seeking a grounding and soothing experience.

These chimes are appreciated for their connection to nature and the elements, reflecting a deep respect for the natural world. Using Koshi Chimes is easy; just hang them up and either the wind or a gentle touch will make them chime.

Koshi Chimes produces soft, high-pitched tones that resonate gently. They are compact and portable, so you can use them in many different settings. Made from bamboo and metal rods, they combine natural materials to create their calming and uplifting sounds.

15. Shakers and Rattles

Shakers and rattles are simple instruments that make rhythmic sounds when you shake them. Their steady, repetitive tones help release tension, making them great for relaxation and stress relief through movement.

In sound healing sessions, shakers and rattles are often used in shamanic practices to clear negative energy and create space for healing. Their rhythmic sounds help balance energy and keep people grounded in the present moment. These instruments are an important part of indigenous sound healing traditions, often used in ceremonies and rituals.

They are very easy to use and perfect for beginners. Just shake them to create a calming rhythm. The sounds they produce can enhance the flow of energy during a session.

Since they are small, shakers and rattles are easy to carry around, making them a versatile tool for both personal and professional sound healing. They are usually made from natural materials like seeds, shells, or stones inside a wooden or animal skin container, giving them a natural, earthy feel.

16. Gong Bath

A Gong Bath is a soothing sound healing experience where multiple gongs are played together, creating deep and powerful vibrations. These sounds help release emotional tension and bring about a state of deep relaxation.

Gong baths are often used in group sessions, allowing participants to fully relax and absorb the healing effects of the gongs. The vibrations from the gongs move through the body, creating a feeling of calm and renewal. Gongs have been used in Asian spiritual traditions for centuries to support healing and spiritual growth.

While playing a gong bath requires practice and skill, it's a popular choice for sound healers working with larger groups. The wide range of sounds produced by the gongs fills the space with strong vibrations, helping participants feel both grounded and refreshed. Made from materials like brass or bronze, gongs are typically large and played by experienced practitioners.

17. Cymbals

Cymbals are small metal discs that make a loud, crashing sound when hit. In sound healing, they’re often used to create a sense of transition or add a dramatic effect during a session. Although not as commonly used as other instruments, cymbals are great for releasing energy and marking important moments. Their sharp, clear tones can stand out from other sounds, making them useful for clearing energy or signaling the end of a meditation or healing practice.

Cymbals have been part of rituals and celebrations in many cultures, adding to their spiritual importance. They’re easy to carry around, but getting the right sound takes a bit of skill. Made from metals like brass or bronze, cymbals produce a loud, lasting sound that can fill a room, making them a strong tool in sound therapy.

18. Singing Ring

A Singing Ring is a simple metal disk or ring that produces a soft, continuous sound when you rub or tap it. This soothing tone makes it a great tool for relaxation and focus. It's often used in meditation and mindfulness to create a peaceful atmosphere and promote calmness. While it's not as well-known as some other sound healing instruments, it’s becoming more popular for its ability to create long, smooth sounds.

Unlike some traditional instruments with deep cultural histories, the Singing Ring is a newer addition to sound therapy. It's very easy to use, so it's perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to add sound to their wellness routine. Small and portable, it's usually made from metals or alloys, making it convenient for both personal and professional use.

19. Native American Flute

The Native American Flute is a beautifully handcrafted wooden instrument known for its soft and calming sound. Traditionally part of Native American music, this flute creates soothing melodies that relax the mind and support emotional healing. Its gentle tones are perfect for meditation, personal reflection, and sound healing sessions.

In Native American cultures, this flute holds spiritual importance and is often used in ceremonies. Today, it’s also popular in sound healing because of its ability to bring a deep sense of peace and relaxation. While it takes some practice, especially with breath control, its warm, airy sound makes it a favorite for connecting with nature through music.

This flute is usually small to medium-sized, making it easy to carry and use anywhere. Though modern versions may use synthetic materials, traditional wooden flutes are still highly valued for their rich, natural sound.

Explore Our Sound Healing Tools

Tuning Forks: Experience the precise vibrations with our Earth Tuning Fork, designed to align your body and mind with the grounding energy of the Earth. Tuning forks are excellent for targeted sound therapy, helping to improve mental clarity and emotional balance.

Hand Chimes: Our Energy Bar Chime is not only perfect for enhancing meditation practices but also serves as a powerful tool in sound therapy. Its clear tone helps to restore a sense of peace and well-being during sessions.

Tibetan Singing Bowls: The Tibetan Brass Singing Bowl is revered for its deep and resonant sound. Ideal for sound baths and meditative healing, this singing bowl is specifically aligned with the Crown Chakra, promoting spiritual connection and healing.

Learn About Sound Healing: Deepen your understanding of how these instruments can be used in therapeutic practices with our book, "Human Tuning: Sound Healing with Tuning Forks". This resource is invaluable for both practitioners and anyone interested in incorporating sound healing into their wellness routine.

Getting Started with Sound Healing Instruments

Bringing sound healing instruments into your personal or professional practice can be a great way to relax, reduce stress, and support healing. You can start with easy-to-use instruments like chimes, singing bowls, or rainsticks to get familiar with the practice.

As you get more comfortable, you can try out more advanced instruments like gongs or the Native American flute. The goal is to experiment and find out which sounds work best for you. Sound healing is a personal experience, and the right mix of instruments can take your practice to the next level.
Sound healing is about exploring and connecting. If you’re interested in how these instruments can improve your relaxation or meditation, why not give them a try? Test out different instruments to see what speaks to you, or connect with a sound healing practitioner for a personalized session. We'd love to hear about the instruments you've tried or how sound healing has made a difference in your life!

FAQs for Sound Healing Instruments

What are some good instruments for beginners?

If you're new to sound healing, there are several easy-to-use instruments to get started with, like chimes, singing bowls, rainsticks, and shakers. These are simple to play and still offer powerful benefits for relaxation and healing.

Can I use more than one instrument at the same time?

Yes! Mixing instruments like gongs, drums, and chimes can create a richer sound experience. Many sound healers combine different instruments to produce a range of vibrations and frequencies, which can deepen relaxation and enhance the healing process.

Do I need to be trained to use sound healing instruments?

While some instruments like gongs and harps require more practice, many others like tuning forks, rainsticks, and Koshi chimes are easy to learn. Even without formal training, you can play these instruments, but learning basic techniques can help you get better results.

How do sound healing instruments work?

These instruments create vibrations and frequencies that can affect your body and mind. The sounds they produce help balance your energy, ease stress, and create a relaxing, healing environment.

Are sound healing instruments easy to carry?

Many sound healing instruments are portable. Smaller instruments like tuning forks, kalimbas, and chimes are easy to take with you. Larger ones, such as gongs and harps, are more suited for spaces dedicated to sound healing.

Which instrument is the most calming?

This depends on your personal preference, but a lot of people find Tibetan singing bowls, ocean drums, and Native American flutes to be especially soothing. Their gentle sounds can promote deep relaxation and emotional healing.

What instruments are used in sound baths?

Sound baths often include instruments like gongs, singing bowls, chimes, tuning forks, and drums. Together, these create an immersive sound experience that helps clear your energy, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.

What are the health benefits of sound healing?

Sound healing instruments can help lower stress, improve focus, and boost emotional well-being. They’re also great for relaxation, improving sleep, and supporting physical healing by calming your nervous system and balancing your energy.

Can I use sound healing instruments at home?

Yes! Many people enjoy using instruments like singing bowls, tuning forks, and kalimbas at home to relax and heal. Whether during meditation or a sound bath, these tools can help create a peaceful atmosphere right in your own space.

Top 19 Sound Healing Instruments for Relaxation and Therapy