Can't switch off? 75 minutes lying back to gongs and singing bowls in Galway — deep rest, a calmer nervous system, nothing to do but receive

75 min-long sound relaxation with gongs and Himalayan singing bowls/ deep rest / passive meditation session in Galway.

How it works

During the sound bath session, you are invited to lie down comfortably on mats, wrapped up in blankets. It is recommended to wear loose, comfortable clothing to allow for ease of movement and relaxation.

We begin with a gentle guided body scan or Yoga Nidra, move into the sound journey, and close with five minutes of compassion meditation together. It isn't a performance or a concert — there's nothing to do but rest.

No previous meditation or sound bath experience is needed. You're welcome to lie down or sit, and you can change position at any point.

After the grounding practice we will then begin gently playing Himalayan singing bowls, followed by gongs, creating a symphony of soothing sounds that will envelop the space. We will walk around the room with some gentle instruments.

Some participants may enter a deep meditative state, while others may drift in and out of relaxation. Each person's experience is unique and personal. It is important to note that our sound baths are non-invasive and do not require any physical contact.

Sound Bath is a fantastic opportunity to allow you to slow down your busy mind and relax your body but also practice mindfulness and relaxation.

If you have tried other relaxation or meditation techniques, and you have struggled to achieve a state of calm and mindfulness, this session may be an opportunity to enter this state naturally and gently with the help of sound. Meditation on sound provides a helpful anchor for us to concentrate on, yet it can also be used passively as a relaxation.

Who it's for

Adults who are stressed, overwhelmed, tired, or finding it hard to switch off — and anyone who wants an hour of proper rest. We also welcome teenagers over 16 years old accompanied by adults. If your mind rarely stops, a sound bath can be a good way in, because there's nothing to concentrate on and nothing to get right. Settling doesn't always happen the first time — that's normal, and you're welcome to come a few times.

What people often notice

Deep rest, a calmer and more settled nervous system, less physical tension, and a quieter mind. Many people notice their breathing and heart rate settling during the session, and describe a sense of mental clarity and emotional balance afterwards. With regular sessions, many also report better sleep.

A sound bath isn't therapy and isn't a substitute for it — if you're dealing with something difficult, it can sit alongside other support.

Relaxation and rest: The harmonious sounds produced by gongs and singing bowls have a profound effect on the mind and body, inducing a state of deep relaxation. As you lay down and allow the sounds to wash over you, your nervous system will naturally shift into a more relaxed state, promoting a sense of calmness and tranquillity.

Stress reduction: Sound baths are known for their ability to reduce stress levels. The vibrations created by the gongs and singing bowls help to release tension from the body, allowing you to let go of accumulated stress or anxiety. This can lead to improved mental clarity, enhanced focus, and a greater sense of emotional wellbeing.

Rejuvenation: Deep relaxation can support the body's own rest-and-recovery process and enhance overall vitality. It can improve sleep when attended regularly. During a sound bath, as you relax naturally, your heart rate slows, breathing calms, and muscular tension and pain can be alleviated.

Trauma-sensitive by design Instruments are never placed on your body. Volume stays controlled. You're told what to expect before we begin, and you're free to sit up, change position, or leave at any point. We watch the room throughout and adapt rather than running a fixed script. We do not use crystal bowls.

Facilitated by Sound Magic Ireland — pioneers of sound baths in the West of Ireland since 2010, with 25 years of combined facilitation experience.

A small number of conditions mean you should avoid the session:

a pacemaker, defibrillator, or similar device;

sound-triggered epilepsy or a history of seizures;

recent surgery (6 months);

an acute infection, cold, or fever;

serious mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, active psychosis, or severe untreated depression.

For your own safety and the comfort of other participants, please don't attend if you've been drinking or taking drugs.

Accessibility & additional needs

Please let us know in advance of any concerns — physical, mental, or otherwise — so we can help make the session as comfortable as possible.

Hearing aids: let us know you're wearing one and we'll do our best to help you have a good experience.

Visual impairment: sound bath can be a wonderful sensory experience for people with visual impairment. You and your carer are welcome — c

Description supplied by the event organiser.