Introduction:

Depression is a complex and debilitating mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Traditional treatments like therapy and medication have proven effective for many, but there remains a significant number of individuals who continue to struggle with symptoms of depression. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the potential of psychedelic substances to treat mental health disorders like depression. In this article, we will delve into the current research on psychedelics, their potential therapeutic benefits, and how they might revolutionize the treatment of depression.

The Science of Psychedelics:

Psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), LSD, and ayahuasca, have been used for centuries by various cultures for spiritual and healing purposes. These substances work by activating specific serotonin receptors in the brain, known as 5-HT2A receptors, leading to a range of psychological and perceptual effects. Researchers believe that this activation of serotonin receptors might hold the key to their potential antidepressant effects.

Psychedelics and Neuroplasticity:

One of the most promising aspects of psychedelic research is the evidence that these substances can promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize and create new neural connections. Depression has been linked to reduced neuroplasticity, making it difficult for individuals to adapt to new situations or recover from negative experiences. Psychedelic-induced neuroplasticity could potentially help individuals with depression develop healthier thought patterns and coping mechanisms.

The Therapeutic Setting:

The effectiveness of psychedelics in treating depression is not solely based on their pharmacological properties. The therapeutic setting in which these substances are administered plays a crucial role in their potential success. In clinical studies, participants are guided through their psychedelic experiences by trained therapists in a controlled, supportive environment. This approach, known as psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, combines the powerful effects of psychedelics with traditional therapeutic techniques to facilitate lasting, positive change.

Current Research and Results:

Numerous clinical trials have been conducted to assess the efficacy of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for depression, and the results have been promising. For example, a study published in JAMA Psychiatry in 2021 found that psilocybin-assisted therapy led to significant reductions in depressive symptoms compared to traditional antidepressant medication. Another study published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2020 demonstrated that MDMA-assisted psychotherapy significantly reduced symptoms of PTSD, a condition often co-occurring with depression. While more research is needed, these results suggest that psychedelics could be a powerful tool in the treatment of depression and other mental health disorders.

The Future of Psychedelic Therapy:

As research into the potential of psychedelics for treating depression continues to grow, we may witness a paradigm shift in the way mental health care is approached. Instead of relying solely on long-term medication regimens, individuals suffering from depression might have access to more targeted, transformative treatments through psychedelic-assisted therapy. However, it is crucial to recognize that psychedelics are not a one-size-fits-all solution, and further research is needed to determine their safety, efficacy, and best practices for clinical use.

Conclusion:

The emerging research on psychedelics and depression offers hope to those who have not found relief through traditional treatments. By unlocking the brain’s potential for neuroplasticity and promoting profound psychological insights, psychedelic-assisted therapy could revolutionize our understanding of mental health and provide new avenues for healing. As we continue to explore the potential of these substances, it is essential to approach this field with caution, open-mindedness, and a commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry.

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Unraveling the Mysteries of Altered States to Foster Personal Growth and Collective Wisdom

Introduction

The world of psychedelics has long been a subject of fascination and intrigue, with the potential to bridge the gap between science and spirituality. From their use in ancient civilizations to the modern resurgence in research, these powerful substances have provided a unique window into the nature of consciousness and the human experience. This article will delve into the historical and cultural significance of psychedelics, the role of science in understanding altered states, and the transformative potential of these experiences for personal growth and collective wisdom.

A Glimpse Into the Past: Psychedelics and Spiritual Traditions

Throughout history, various cultures have harnessed the power of psychedelic substances in religious ceremonies and rituals. Ancient civilizations such as the Maya, Aztec, and indigenous cultures around the world have utilized natural psychedelics like psilocybin mushrooms, ayahuasca, and peyote to facilitate communication with the spirit world, promote self-discovery, and foster a sense of interconnectedness with nature and the cosmos.

The Psychedelic Renaissance: A Resurgence in Scientific Research

In the mid-20th century, the potential therapeutic applications of psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin caught the attention of the scientific community. However, social and political factors led to the prohibition of these substances and a subsequent stagnation in research. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in psychedelic research, driven by the recognition of their potential benefits for mental health and personal growth. Studies have shown promising results in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction, with some patients experiencing lasting improvements in well-being after just one or two guided sessions.

Bridging Worlds: The Intersection of Science and Spirituality

The exploration of altered states of consciousness through psychedelics provides a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between science and spirituality. While the transcendent experiences reported by users are deeply personal and often defy explanation, they also offer valuable insights into the nature of consciousness and our connection to the universe.

Neuroscientific research has begun to unravel the complex relationship between brain function and the subjective experiences induced by psychedelics. Techniques such as functional MRI (fMRI) and electroencephalogram (EEG) have revealed that these substances modulate the activity of certain brain regions, leading to altered perceptions, emotions, and cognitive processes.

These findings have opened new doors for understanding the underlying mechanisms of spiritual and mystical experiences, as well as the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for mental health. By examining the neurobiological basis of these phenomena, science can help demystify the transcendent and provide a framework for integrating these experiences into our understanding of human consciousness.

The Path to Transformation: Integrating Psychedelic Experiences

To harness the transformative potential of psychedelic experiences, it is essential to integrate the insights gained during the altered state into one’s daily life and personal growth journey. This process involves reflecting on the lessons learned, and incorporating them into one’s self-perception, sense of purpose, and emotional well-being.

As more individuals explore the potential of psychedelics for consciousness expansion and personal growth, a collective wisdom begins to emerge. Sharing these experiences can foster a greater understanding of the human condition, transcending cultural and religious boundaries, and promoting empathy, compassion, and unity.

Conclusion

The journey through psychedelics and consciousness exploration is not only a scientific endeavor but also a spiritual quest, allowing us to connect with the deepest aspects of ourselves and the mysteries of the universe. As research continues to uncover the neurobiological mechanisms underlying these profound experiences, we can develop a deeper understanding of human consciousness, interconnectedness, and the potential for personal transformation. By integrating the insights gained through these experiences into our daily lives, we can foster personal growth, cultivate collective wisdom, and contribute to a more compassionate and unified world. The exploration of psychedelics offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between science and spirituality, providing a new perspective on the human experience and our place in the cosmos.

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Introduction

Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years and is known for its remarkable benefits on mental and physical health. Today, more people than ever are incorporating meditation into their daily routines to improve their quality of life. In this article, we will explore three examples of how meditation can transform lives and discuss an innovative online course that combines meditation with sound therapy for a holistic approach to well-being.

1. Reducing Stress and Anxiety

One of the most well-known benefits of meditation is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. In a fast-paced world where individuals often feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities, meditation provides a much-needed respite. Regular meditation practice can help individuals develop a healthier response to stressors by fostering a sense of calm and mental clarity. This improved ability to cope with stress can lead to better mental health, more restful sleep, and increased resilience in the face of challenges.

Example: Sarah, a busy executive, found herself constantly on edge due to the demands of her high-pressure job. After incorporating a daily meditation practice into her routine, she noticed a significant decrease in her stress levels and an improvement in her overall mood.

2. Enhancing Emotional Well-Being

Meditation can have a profound effect on emotional well-being, helping individuals cultivate a more positive outlook on life. By focusing on the present moment and practicing mindfulness, people can develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation. This, in turn, can lead to reduced feelings of depression, anger, and fear while increasing feelings of happiness and contentment.

Example: Mike, a father of two, struggled with feelings of inadequacy and depression. After attending a meditation workshop, he began to practice daily and soon found that his negative thoughts and emotions were replaced with a newfound sense of optimism and self-compassion.

3. Boosting Cognitive Function

Studies have shown that meditation can improve various aspects of cognitive function, including attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. The practice of focusing the mind on a single point, such as the breath or a mantra, can help individuals develop greater concentration and mental sharpness, leading to better performance in work or school.

Example: Laura, a college student, found it difficult to focus during lectures and exams. After incorporating meditation into her daily routine, she noticed a significant improvement in her ability to concentrate and retain information, which ultimately led to better academic performance.

The Sound Therapy Online Course

One exciting development in the world of meditation is the integration of sound therapy into traditional practices. Sound therapy harnesses the power of specific sounds, frequencies, and vibrations to promote relaxation, healing, and overall well-being. By combining meditation with sound therapy, individuals can experience a deeper level of relaxation and enhanced benefits.

Our innovative online course, “Sound Therapy” teaches you how to incorporate the principles of sound therapy into your meditation practice. Through expert guidance, you will explore various sound therapy techniques, such as the use of singing bowls, tuning forks, and ambient music, to create a personalized and immersive meditative experience.

Conclusion

Meditation has the potential to bring about profound transformations in one’s life, from reducing stress and anxiety to improving emotional well-being and cognitive function. By incorporating sound therapy into your meditation practice through our online course, you can unlock even greater benefits and embark on a journey towards a healthier, happier, and more balanced life.

By enrolling in our sound therapy course, not only will you learn how to implement these techniques into your own life, but you will also acquire the knowledge and certificate to teach others.

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Introduction

Astral traveling, also known as astral projection or out-of-body experiences (OBE), is a fascinating phenomenon that has captured the imagination of people across cultures and time. It is the process of consciously separating one’s astral body or consciousness from their physical body, allowing them to explore the astral plane and other dimensions beyond the physical realm. This article will delve into the concept of astral traveling, its historical roots, techniques, and the potential benefits of this extraordinary experience.

A Brief History of Astral Travel

The concept of astral travel dates back thousands of years and spans a variety of cultures and belief systems. Ancient Egyptian texts refer to the “ka,” or double of a person, that could separate from the physical body and travel to different realms. Hinduism, Buddhism, and other Eastern spiritual traditions also have references to astral projection, often describing it as a means of achieving higher states of consciousness or spiritual enlightenment.

In the Western world, the concept gained popularity in the 20th century, largely due to the work of the Theosophical Society, which introduced the term “astral projection.” Later, the field of parapsychology and the New Age movement further popularized the idea, resulting in an increased interest in astral traveling as a means of personal growth and spiritual exploration.

Techniques for Astral Traveling

Several techniques exist to induce astral projection, and individuals may find some methods more effective than others. Some common methods include:

1. Relaxation and Visualization: The first step in astral traveling is to achieve a deep state of relaxation, often through meditation or progressive muscle relaxation. Once fully relaxed, individuals can employ visualization techniques, such as imagining themselves floating out of their body or using a “rope” to pull themselves out.
2. The Wake-Back-To-Bed Method: This technique involves waking up after several hours of sleep, engaging in a quiet activity for about 30 minutes, and then returning to bed with the intention to astral project. This method takes advantage of the body’s natural sleep cycle and the hypnagogic state, which is the transitional state between wakefulness and sleep.
3. Binaural Beats: Some individuals find that listening to binaural beats, a form of auditory brainwave entrainment, can help induce the altered state of consciousness required for astral projection. Binaural beats work by playing two slightly different frequencies in each ear, which the brain perceives as a single, pulsing tone.

Potential Benefits and Risks

Proponents of astral traveling argue that the practice can lead to numerous benefits, including:

1. Personal Growth: Astral projection can provide unique insights into one’s life, potentially leading to increased self-awareness and personal growth.
2. Spiritual Exploration: Astral travel offers a means to explore the spiritual realm and can help individuals deepen their connection to a higher power or consciousness.
3. Enhanced Creativity: Some artists and writers claim that astral traveling has inspired their work and boosted their creativity.

However, there are potential risks and drawbacks to consider as well.

1. Fear and Anxiety: Individuals may experience fear or anxiety during an astral projection, especially if they are unprepared or lack experience.
2. Sleep Disruption: Engaging in astral traveling practices during sleep can potentially disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue or insomnia.
3. Delusion and Psychosis: In some cases, individuals may struggle to differentiate between astral experiences and reality, which can result in delusions or other mental health concerns.

Conclusion

Astral travel is an intriguing and mysterious phenomenon that has captivated the human imagination for millennia. While it is not fully understood, many individuals continue to explore and practice astral projection, seeking to unlock the mysteries of the astral plane and expand their consciousness. As with any spiritual or esoteric practice, the key to successful astral travel is proper preparation, education, and a commitment to personal growth.

For those interested in astral traveling, it is important to approach the practice with an open mind and a healthy sense of curiosity while also maintaining a grounded connection to reality. By doing so, individuals can maximize the potential benefits of astral projection while minimizing potential risks.

As research into the field of consciousness continues to evolve, it is possible that the scientific understanding of astral traveling may expand, shedding new light on this ancient practice. Until then, astral travel remains an enigmatic and alluring journey for those who seek to venture beyond the boundaries of the physical world.

The Institute of Conscious Evolution After Life Course is set to launch November 2023 where we will be diving deeper into astral travel and much more.

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Introduction

The afterlife is a subject that has fascinated humans since the dawn of time. Theories, beliefs and ideas about what happens to us after we die have emerged from countless religious, philosophical and cultural perspectives. Despite the myriad of theories, the concept of the afterlife remains one of the most enigmatic and captivating aspects of human existence. This article will delve into various beliefs surrounding the afterlife and the role these beliefs play in shaping our understanding of life and death.

Religious Perspectives on the Afterlife

Religious beliefs often provide the most detailed descriptions of the afterlife. Here are some notable examples:

• Christianity: The Christian faith says that people who accept Jesus Christ as their savior will live forever in heaven. On the other hand, people who have rejected Christ are thought to spend all of eternity away from God in Hell.
• Islam: In Islamic belief, the afterlife is divided into two realms: paradise (Jannah) and hell (Jahannam). Believers who lived a righteous life will dwell in paradise, while those who lived a sinful life will be punished in hell.
• Hinduism: Hindus believe in a cycle of birth, death and rebirth called Samsara. The ultimate goal is to break free from this cycle and achieve Moksha, a state of eternal bliss and union with the divine.
• Buddhism: Similar to Hinduism, Buddhists also believe in a cycle of rebirth known as Samsara. In Buddhism, the goal is to reach Nirvana, which is a state of enlightenment and freedom from pain and the cycle of rebirth.

Philosophical Perspectives on the Afterlife

Philosophers throughout history have also pondered the question of the afterlife. Some prominent philosophical perspectives include:

• Materialism: People who believe in materialism say that consciousness and identity are made by the brain and end when you die. Consequently, there is no afterlife or continuation of consciousness.
• Dualism: Dualists, such as René Descartes, believe that the mind and body are separate entities. The soul, or consciousness, can live on after the body dies. This suggests that there might be an afterlife.
• Panpsychism: This theory posits that consciousness is a fundamental property of the universe. In this view, everything possesses some form of consciousness, which could imply that a continuation of consciousness in some form occurs after death.

Near-Death Experiences and the Afterlife

Near-death experiences (NDEs) have intrigued researchers and the general public alike. People who have experienced NDEs often report similar phenomena, such as out-of-body experiences, traveling through tunnels, and encountering deceased loved ones or divine beings. While some interpret these experiences as glimpses of the afterlife, others argue that they are the result of neurological processes occurring in the dying brain.

The Role of the Afterlife in Grieving and Coping with Loss

People who have lost loved ones can find comfort and peace in their belief in an afterlife. The hope of being reunited with the deceased and the assurance that they are in a better place can help ease the pain of loss. Also, cultural and religious rituals that happen around death are often a way for people to get support and feel closer to their community while they are grieving.

Conclusion

The afterlife remains an enigma that has captured the imagination of humankind for millennia. From religious and philosophical perspectives to near-death experiences, beliefs about the afterlife are as diverse as they are fascinating. Whether or not the afterlife exists, the concept continues to play a crucial role in how we cope with loss, find meaning in our lives, and grapple with the great unknown that lies beyond the veil of death.

The Institute of Conscious Evolution After Life Course is set to launch November 2023

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What is a near death experience?

Near-death experiences (NDEs) are profound subjective experiences that occur when a person is on the brink of death or has been declared clinically dead but then recovers. These experiences are often described as mystical or spiritual, and are characterized by a sense of being outside one’s body, seeing a bright light or a tunnel, encountering deceased loved ones, or having a life review.

Does NDE have an everlasting impact?

NDEs can be transformative experiences, leading to significant changes in a person’s consciousness, worldview, and behavior. Many people who have had an NDE report feeling a sense of profound peace, love, and unity with the universe, and a diminished fear of death. They may also experience a heightened sensitivity to beauty and a deeper appreciation of life, relationships, and spirituality.

What are some similarities of NDE’s?

Some individuals report that their NDEs have also led to increased empathy, compassion, and altruism, as well as a greater awareness of the interconnectedness of all things. Some people even report developing new abilities or psychic sensitivities after their NDE.

However, the experience of an NDE and its aftermath can also be challenging for some individuals. For example, some people may struggle to integrate their NDE into their everyday lives, or may feel isolated or misunderstood by others who have not had similar experiences. Additionally, some people may experience changes in their beliefs or values that conflict with their previous way of life or the expectations of others around them.

Overall, the impact of an NDE on a person’s consciousness and worldview is complex and multifaceted, and can vary widely from person to person. However, many people who have had an NDE report that it has been a profound and transformative experience that has changed the way they view themselves, others, and the world around them.

Could a NDE be proof of life after death?

The question of whether NDEs provide proof of life after death is a matter of debate among scientists, philosophers, and religious scholars. While some people who have had NDEs interpret their experiences as evidence of an afterlife or a spiritual dimension beyond the physical world, others argue that NDEs can be explained by naturalistic or physiological factors.

What does science say?

One argument against the idea that NDEs provide proof of an afterlife is that they can be induced by a variety of physical and chemical triggers, such as oxygen deprivation, certain medications, or electrical stimulation of the brain. Some researchers suggest that NDEs may be a product of the brain’s attempt to make sense of a sudden interruption in normal sensory input, rather than a glimpse of a spiritual realm.

On the other hand, some proponents of the afterlife hypothesis argue that the consistency of NDE reports across cultures and time periods suggests that there may be a universal or transcendent aspect to the experience that goes beyond the physiological or cultural factors that might influence it.

In conclusion

Does the brain become starved of oxygen, prompting seemingly real fantasies? Do various areas of the brain suddenly begin to create strange, altered states? Are they experiencing a spiritual awakening? Or is this just the way our brain prepares us for death? So many questions when facing the unknown. Although, if you ask a survivor of a NDE they will tell you that there is definitely something greater than ourselves. 

IOCE is in the process of launching the “Life after life” certification.

You will discover:

• A vast repository of afterlife-related literature
• Share with others the most persuasive proof of the afterlife. 
• Learn meditation, astral travel, mediumship, and extrasensory perception techniques. 
• Assist others throughout the dying process

In this article we will discuss some of the top breathwork methods and why you should learn them.

Offering breathwork as a service

Breathwork is a popular health trend. Many people are starting to become breathwork instructors . Breathwork classes are increasingly being offered in many gyms and studios around the world. As more and more people become aware of the benefits of breath there will be more demand for breath workshop classes and adding breath work as an additional service for those who work in the wellness field. 

How does breath affect your nervous system?

Breathwork’s improved self-awareness also aids in releasing stress and trauma from the body. 

Our nervous system is responsible for controlling and regulating many of our body’s functions. When it is under stress or in trauma, it can cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms. Breathwork can have a positive impact on your central nervous system. When you focus on breathing, you allow your body the chance to reset and recover from the negative side effects of stress. 

Examples of top breathwork methods:

Wim Hof

Wim Hof is a Dutch extreme athlete and advocate of cold therapy, known for his practices in breathing exercises and cold exposure has earned him the nickname “iceman”. 

The Wim Hof Method incorporates breathing techniques, cold therapy, and physical activities. His method has acquired popularity as an alternate type of self-improvement and treatment. It has shown considerable improvement in the treatment of a variety of illnesses, including depression, anxiety, and chronic pain, and has also proven effective in reducing some symptoms of autoimmune disorders.

A 2018 study found that the Wim Hof Method stimulated brain areas involved in suppressing pain, suggesting that it may have utility as an endogenous painkiller. Another study found that the Wim Hof Method was able to reduce inflammatory markers in those with autoimmune disorders as well as with arthritis. 

Feel the 5 superhuman benefits of the Wim Hof Method 

• Better sleep 
• Boost energy 
• Improved mental health 
• Strengthen the immune system
• Increase sports recovery 

This is ‘Iceman’ Wim Hof!

Breath of Fire

The breathing technique known as Breath of Fire involves passive, normal inhalations and powerful, rapid exhalations.

It can be traced back to the ancient yogis of the Himalayas and is seen as a spiritual method of cleansing the energy in your body. Pranayama (fire breathing)can be used to relieve stress and anxiety, increase focus, increase energy, and boost the immune system. This style of forced exhalation may help reduce stress, boost brain function, and improve respiratory health. It’s also said to strengthen the abdominal muscles and improve digestion. Over time, you can try doing Breath of Fire for longer.

What to expect?

During Breath of Fire, you inhale passively and exhale forcefully. The exhale, which requires you to contract your abdominal muscles, is the main focus of this technique.

Also, the inhale and exhale should be the same length, without any pauses in between. This is different from slow breathing exercises, which often involve longer exhales. With this technique, the pattern of your breathing is more important than the speed. So, start slow if you’re new to the technique. You can speed it up later on. Breath of Fire is done in a seated position. It can last anywhere from 30 seconds to 10 minutes

Breath of Fire Tutorial – Women’s Health Yoga

Box Breathing

What is box breathing?

Box breathing, also known as square breathing or 4-4-4-4 breathing, is a technique that helps to focus on taking slow, deep breaths. It’s used by a wide variety of professionals and athletes for stress reduction and improved performance.

The Science

Box breathing was developed by Mark Divine, a former Navy SEAL commander, who has been using the technique since 1987. It’s regularly used by people in high-stress environments due to its ability to turn off a person’s fight-or-flight mode. Using this exercise is seen as a great method of relaxation, since it distracts your mind from the stresses around you as you focus specifically on your breathwork.

Benefits

• Allows you to feel calm and regulate your autonomic nervous system.
• Can help to regulate body temperature.
• Can help lower blood pressure.
• Reduces stress and improves mood, and can even assist in treating anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, and depression.
• Can help treat insomnia when practiced before bed.
• Can help with pain management.

Box breathing relaxation technique: how to calm feelings of stress or anxiety

The Buteyko Method

Over the span of four decades, Dr. Buteyko developed a program designed to normalize breathing volume. By using slow breathing and breath holds after exhaling,

The objective is to take less air into the lungs. 

By practicing these breathing exercises you can open your airways and improve blood circulation in a matter of minutes. 

Few people realize that in order to increase blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues, breathing should be slowed down so that less air enters the body. You will know when you are taking in less air than normal when you start to experience a tolerable feeling of air hunger. 

Within a few minutes of continued slowing of the breath to experience air hunger, the body temperature will increase to indicate an improvement of blood circulation. At the same time, there is an increase in watery saliva in the mouth – traditionally observed in Yoga as activation of the body’s relaxation response.

The Buteyko Clinic Method consists of seven exercises with a number of variations. The foundation of the method is to breathe only through the nose both during day and sleep. Nasal breathing with tongue resting in the roof of the mouth helps to ensure that the airway is larger. This reduces the risk of sleep problems including obstructive sleep apnea.

https://www.youtube.com/@ButeykoClinicInternational

Conclusion

On a personal level breath work is valuable because it gives you more control over your body and mind. 

Controlling your breathing enables you to interrupt and redirect the flow of your emotions. 

Breathwork is a type of mindfulness practice that involves intentional and controlled breathing patterns, with the aim of inducing altered states of consciousness. 

Breathing, something we do 22,000 times in a day without a second thought. Something so simple as the way we breath can have multiple impacts on our mind, body and some would even say our soul.  The pattern. The rhythm. The intensity.  Even the timing of how and when to inhale and exhale. The combination of these few simple changes can show signs of  improvement for people with medical conditions like  asthma but can also help with anxiety and depression. It can re-energize  the nervous system Like rebooting a computer. Our nervous systems sometimes need to be rebooted to. 

You can discover all the other amazing ways you can enhance your life and the lives of others starting with just one breath at a time.

How to use breath work in a sound therapy session?

Reference articles
https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-is-breathwork
https://mindisthemaster.com/wim-hof-breathing-method-benefits/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/wim-hof-breathing-method
https://www.wimhofmethod.com/iceman-wim-hof
https://www.healthline.com/health/breath-of-fire-yoga#definition
https://www.othership.us/resources/breathwork-techniques#ch3
https://buteykoclinic.com/breathing-exercises/

This is direct communication with another person without the use of words or bodily gestures. Mental communication is what most people consider telepathy; they neglect other aspects, including mind-reading, impression, and control. Mind-to-mind communication occurs in ordinary ways in our everyday life. You might have mentally communicated with another person without paying attention to it. It is common sense that humans are always in touch with each other through mental communication in our everyday interactions.

Every day, we send and receive thoughts, feelings, messages, and information beyond the five physical senses, which are supposed to be the mediums of communication. Surely, you have heard someone say they are “in touch” with their loved ones. When people say this, it may seem as though they are merely saying it for no reason, but that isn’t the case. One can pick up on the thoughts, feelings, moods, and desires of a loved one regardless of distance and other factors. For instance, a mother can tell when her child hundreds of miles away is in some sort of danger.

How is this possible? Undoubtedly, it is possible to pick up on another’s internal state by reading their facial expressions, body language, tone of voice, etc., But the fact is that you also frequently communicate with others on extra- physical levels, i.e., beyond what is observable on the physical level. You are not yet attuned to the activity consciously.

Have you ever had someone in mind and then received a call from them shortly thereafter? How often do you enter a room and can immediately tell that someone in that room doesn’t like you? Mental communication manifests in different ways. Contrary to what you may think, your thoughts are tangible. They do have form, but not in a rigid way like things in the physical world. Thoughts can be perceived and transmitted beyond the physical senses.

Depending on your perception, thoughts can even assume shapes and colors. They are always moving, shifting, and changing in ways beyond ordinary understanding. However, the present state of the world has made it even harder to mentally communicate with others. In the modern world, we are disconnected from nature, addicted to technology, and our psyches are continually being bombarded with all sorts of marketing and information.

All of this makes it incredibly difficult to tune in with our extra physical senses to communicate with one another. It hinders our ability to connect and remain in touch with one another, intuitively and empathically. For indigenous people who have managed to preserve the structural integrity of their culture, mental communication and telepathy as a whole are a normal part of their daily experiences. As a result, those who choose to be shamans or psychics can develop these abilities to levels that may seem extraordinary.

The ability is enhanced and developed through one’s immersion in complementary spiritual practices. Like any other skill, it can be improved with practice and focus.

Teaching sound therapy to others.

Lately, we have been asked, after I am certified, can I teach sound therapy to others?

The answer is yes, once you feel you have enough experience, of course. Keep in mind that teaching is a big responsibility, so make sure you are ready. This is not a regulated industry, at least not yet. Hopefully it will be one day.

Many sound therapists today offer their own sound therapy certifications. The industry is getting quite saturated with courses, from cheap Udemy certifications to courses hosted on Zoom Live for thousands of dollars. How to go about designing your own sound therapy course?

The first thing we did before offering a sound therapy certification (aside from having years of experience working with sound and healing), is market research, which consisted of taking several other sound therapy certifications in order to understand what was missing in the market. Then we proceeded to research what was offered for free on YouTube or already written in books. We decided in what respects our course would be different from others. And finally, we decided on the particular elements and structure we believed would bring the most value to people wanting to enter this field.

So what makes a good sound therapy course in the first place?

1. Value
2. Structure
3. Convenience
4. Cost

Value

If you are planning on offering your own sound therapy classes or courses, it’s important that you give as much value as possible. Value comes from being able to deliver quality information (that is not already easily found for free) in a structured way so students can efficiently use sound therapy to heal themselves and others. When we speak of quality information, it’s important that you make distinctions between what is a belief and what is science. Introducing someone to sound therapy and making claims of causation instead of correlation will only discredit the industry. True value is delivered through honesty. Value is also delivered by making your course unique, especially in a competitive market. You can bring something different to your course by adding another skill set. For example, if you are a yoga instructor, you can offer them yoga sound therapy and emphasise using mantras or incorporating elements of nada yoga. If you are a musician, you can focus your course on more music theory and using musical intervals. If you produce music, you can dive deeper into drones, binaural beats, and pink noise. If you are a Reiki practitioner, you can offer a course that incorporates more energy healing techniques. Ask yourself what will make my sound therapy course different. And what can I, in my experience, teach others that will be of most value to them?

Structure

Your course layout should be well thought out. With a strong foundation, your students will be able to pick up any instrument and know how to use it for sound healing. Tell them what you are going to teach them, teach them and finish by going over what they have learned. When outlining your course, it’s helpful to start with headers and bullet points, adding the paragraphs later, when you are happy with the layout. Think of it from the outside. Keep in mind what it was like to be a beginner and what you wish you learned more of and why. Once you have a textbook or documented version of your course, then you can focus on using video, powerpoint, exercises, or whatever else you want to offer as part of your course. Many sound therapy courses give students disorganised pdf’s with no structure and do a whole lot of pointless feel good zoom talks. It may be fun and social, but it is useless to prepare you for the real thing. Having a really well structured road map is very important in order for your students to retain and use the information to sound and deliver like a professional. It helps to show your final draft to some friends and get some feedback.

Before launching our course, we had it reviewed by people interested in sound therapy, other sound therapists, healers, musicians, and other academics. So use your network as a sounding board.

Convenience

Time is precious. With access to more and more information, people are generally getting smarter and quicker. Keep in mind that no matter how many presentations, videos and pdf’s you deliver, getting out there and actually doing the work is what matters most. What makes a good sound therapist is gaining experience in how to deliver high-quality sessions to strangers. We know of many sound therapy courses and certifications that take several months or years to complete at various levels. Ultimately, there is nothing wrong with this model. It may work for some and in fact be preferred, but many will choose to learn at their own pace, on their own schedule, and if they already have a gift or a calling, or are looking to add it on as an additional service, they will look for a faster and more efficient way to become certified. When creating your courses, it may be beneficial to have a two-tiered approach of in-person and online as well as creating your courses in a concise modular format. 

Cost

Cost is a big factor for people when it comes to course selection. Students will have to buy instruments, so keep that in mind when pricing your courses. There are scammy looking courses online. For example, you might want to consider what value you are receiving from paying $25 or $50 for a certificate. Money can represent energy. If you are giving someone a session or teaching a course, we strongly recommend you do not undervalue yourself. Learning how to heal with sound or receiving a sound healing session is worth every dollar you charge. If you want to help someone that is in financial difficulty, it’s better to offer it for free. That is what we do when we are approached by people claiming they need a hand to pay for the course, and in doing so we energetically get back 10 fold, for that person can go on and help others. With that said, be careful not to overcharge as well. We know for a fact that other course providers/businesses tend to overcomplicate things, making it seem difficult to learn how to become a sound therapist, drawing things out so they can justify the price. Other early providers still charge the same as they did years ago when they were the only ones offering sound therapy courses. Things have changed and they will keep changing, so aim to always do your research, give value and achieve balance. 

Conclusion

So when it comes to offering your own sound therapy courses or certification, consider coming up with a strong value proposition. What makes you stand out? How long is the course? Will you offer it online or in person? Who else in your area will be offering courses? Try to find out how much people are willing to pay for your specific course. Will there be different types of courses? What group of people will you be targeting? Will it be mothers and kids? Seniors? Will you target the fitness industry or musicians? Is this for self healing or are your students going to also offer sessions? What do they need to know in order to do an excellent job? How convenient will it be for them? Will it be more of a social thing or a pre-recorded course? Whatever your path leads you to, we hope the information in this article has inspired you.