What to Expect at Your First Sound Healing Session

Sound healing session with Tibetan singing bowl and gong, two participants lying relaxed on mats, receiving vibrational therapy in a calming indoor space.

My First Sound Healing Session

I recently experienced my first sound healing session. This felt long overdue. As someone who grew up believing in the medicinal power of music, formal sound healing has been on my wish list for a while. When the opportunity presented itself here at Solum Life Therapy, I was excited to give it a try. I arrived carrying the weight of a long week. I was showing up mentally foggy and was unsure of what to really expect. I had been aware of sound healing for some time, given my interest in natural healing methods more generally. However, even as a graduate student pursuing this kind of thing professionally, my thoughts swirled a bit. I wondered how it all worked and what might surface emotionally during the experience. Would I be able to “drop in” with enough presence? I was filled with questions, curiosity, and nerves. 

This blog shares my personal experience and offers some beginner-friendly guidance about what to expect at your first session.

Preparing for Your First Sound Healing Session

Upon arrival, expect a warm and gentle welcome. You’ll be invited to settle into a cozy space - often lying down on a mat or reclining in a chair. Comfortable clothes are definitely welcomed, along with anything to help your body feel supported – like a pillow or light blanket. If your session is taking place at home, aim for a quiet room where distractions can be reduced. While certainly not required, ambient, warm lighting can help the mind and body settle into a more serene mood. If your session is held in an office space, the facilitator will have this covered. As you settle in, the facilitator will spend the first few minutes discussing your intentions and any physical sensitivities with you before the session begins. There’s no pressure to share - just an invitation to arrive as you are. 

What Happens During a Sound Healing Session

My own session began with tuning forks that produce soft grounding sounds - think gentle chimes or low-frequency tones. These sounds quickly began helping my body shift from alertness to a state of rest. The forks are typically tapped together and then placed on different centers of the body. Note: The facilitator definitely asked for consent before touching me. Tuning forks create waves of vibration that may sound and feel like a gentle hum. As these vibrations resonated with my body’s own energy field, I was able to detect a subtle change in tone. I learned our energy field can be affected by many things, including physical or emotional injuries. The facilitator talked with me about what they were noticing.

At this stage, the facilitator’s extensive training with frequency will shine here, and together you can decide where it may be helpful to focus.

As the session progresses, the facilitator may use various tools, including:

• Crystal singing bowls that resonate with different energy centers (chakras)

• Gongs that create deep, immersive waves of vibration

• Tuning forks or chimes that offer subtle recalibration.

• Verbal repeating of intentions or mantras that invite emotional release. 

Throughout the session, it was essential for me to remember that I don’t need to “do” anything. Just breathe and notice. Some people feel tingling, emotional shifts, or even fall asleep - all responses are completely valid. During my session, I noticed my thoughts slowing down, entering and exiting with less judgment and more ease. I noticed my breathing sank into a more relaxed pace – and yes, I nearly fell asleep. 

The facilitator will gently inform you when the session is coming to a close. It is normal to feel deeply relaxed when the session ends. The facilitator provided ample time for me to reorient myself in my surroundings and offered time to reflect on my experience. For me, the end of the sound healing felt much like coming out of a massage – my mind, body, and spirit were deeply centered and calm.

Sound Healing Benefits: Sensations & Emotional Release

Sound healing works on a cellular and energetic level, so sensations can vary. Here are a few things I experienced:

• A sense of spaciousness or lightness

• Emotional release (tears, laughter, memories surfacing)

• Physical sensations like warmth, vibration, or deep relaxation

• Mental clarity or a meditative state

It was clear that my comfort and agency are central to the session. If discomfort arises, you’re always welcome to adjust your position or notify the facilitator.

Sound Healing FAQ: Beginner Questions Answered

• Do I need to bring anything?
  Just yourself. Some people like to bring a water bottle, journal, or cozy layers. Most facilitators provide mats, blankets, or props - but feel free to ask ahead of time.

• What if I don’t feel anything?
  That’s okay. I learned that sound healing isn’t about achieving a specific result—it’s about offering your system a chance to recalibrate. Sometimes the shifts are subtle or show up later. Trust your process.

• Can I move or adjust during the session?
  Absolutely. You’re encouraged to listen to your body. If you need to stretch, reposition, or step out briefly, that’s welcome.

• Is it okay if I fall asleep?
  Yes. Sleep is a sign that your body feels safe enough to rest. The sound still works on your system, even if you’re not consciously aware.

Book Your First Sound Healing Session at Solum Life Therapy

If what we’ve shared resonates with you, please don't hesitate to reach out. To book your first session or learn more about sound healing through Solum Life Therapy, you can request a consultation directly on our website. We’d be honored to support your healing journey through sound.