Sound's Role in Easing Environmental Concerns
In a world increasingly preoccupied with the looming reality of climate change, a unique solution is emerging: sound healing. Practitioners like Simon Slieker, a DJ and sound bath facilitator, are using the power of music and sound to help people cope with the growing concern known as climate anxiety.
Sound healing, as a method to soothe some of the symptoms caused by eco-anxiety, is gaining traction. Kelly Lee Owens, an electronic musician and DJ, emphasizes the importance of sound in bringing people together and facilitating shared moments of creative expression. Owens runs deep listening sessions to help individuals better connect with their environment.
The recent uptick in sound healing classes can be partially attributed to the rise of the wellness-industrial complex. However, the use of sound for healing and spiritual purposes is not a new invention. Cultures across the world have used sound healing for centuries. Examples include the didgeridoo in Aboriginal communities, singing bowls in Asia, and the ancient Egyptian priestesses playing the sistrum.
George Macpherson, founder of Sound of the Times, is a sound meditation practitioner. His sessions often include a variety of instruments like buffalo drums, shruti boxes, koshi chimes, tingsha bells, hum drums, reverie harps, rain sticks, symphonic gongs, and self-created sounds through vocal toning, humming, and breath work. Macpherson aims to create a space where people can be curious about the journey a sound can take them on, rather than focusing on familiarity.
Slieker believes that the revolution for climate action has to begin with each individual, and sound healing can help foster a sense of connection. A recent session by Owens in Sydney included laser light displays, custom-made scents, and focused on intentionality and empathic modes of listening. Brown suggests that sound baths don't have to be formalized experiences and can include activities like taking a walk in a local park and being aware of the sounds around.
A study by The Lancet found that over half of U.K.-based children and young adults have cited feelings of distress at the looming reality of the climate crisis. Terms like eco-anxiety have entered the mainstream to describe these feelings of extreme worry over current and potential environmental collapse. Owens believes that these deep listening sessions are particularly urgent in the digital era where many people rely on constant streams of entertainment to keep their minds and bodies busy.
Slieker and Macpherson's work highlights the potential of sound healing in creating the mental and emotional conditions for people to best participate in the fight for climate justice. Brown emphasizes that sound is an emergent catalyst that can create space for innovation and creativity, which is essential in the context of climate change. With the growing concern over climate anxiety, the use of sound healing as a tool for coping and connection is a promising development in the fight for a sustainable future.
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