Sound healing is known for its deeply relaxing and restorative effects, but some people report experiencing mild discomfort, such as headaches or fatigue, after a session. This seems to be more common with people who are experiencing this type of session for the first time. However, if you’ve ever wondered whether sound healing can make you feel unwell, you’re not alone. I have been asked this question a few times by my clients, so I thought it would be best to address it in a blog so here you go. In this blog, I’ll explore why these effects may happen and what it means for your healing journey.
Understanding Sound Healing and Its Effects
Sound healing works by using vibrational frequencies to restore balance to the mind and body. Instruments such as singing bowls, gongs, chimes, and drums produce frequencies that interact with our body’s energy, helping to release tension and promote deep relaxation. If you’re curious about how sound frequencies influence the body and the full range of benefits, check out my other blog – How Sound Healing Works & Its Benefits.
For many, including myself, this process feels soothing and uplifting. However, because sound healing encourages energetic shifts, it can sometimes bring temporary discomfort—similar to how a deep tissue massage might leave you feeling sore before you feel better.
Can Sound Healing Make You Feel Unwell?
While sound healing itself isn’t harmful, some people may experience mild discomfort, such as:
- Headaches
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue or feeling emotionally overwhelmed
- Nausea or uneasiness
These reactions are often temporary and indicate that the body is processing energetic or emotional shifts.
Why Can Sound Healing Cause Headaches?
If you experience a headache after a sound healing session, it may be due to:
- Energy Shifts – Vibrational healing can stir up blocked energy, causing temporary discomfort as the body adjusts.
- Dehydration – Sound waves encourage detoxification, and dehydration can sometimes trigger headaches. Make sure to drink plenty of water after a session.
- Sensitivity to Frequencies – Some people are naturally more sensitive to sound frequencies, especially if they’re new to sound healing. It’s important to keep note of which sounds or frequencies you were most sensitive to. Tibetan singing bowls, for example, are widely used in sound therapy, but some people report mixed reactions. You can read more about their effects in this Healthline article on Tibetan singing bowls.
- Emotional Release – Releasing stored emotions or stress can sometimes present as physical sensations, including head tension.
How to Minimise Discomfort After Sound Healing
If you feel off after a session, here are some ways to rebalance:
- Hydrate – Drink plenty of water to flush out any toxins released during the session.
- Ground Yourself – Walk barefoot on grass, hold a grounding crystal like black tourmaline, or take slow, deep breaths.
- Rest – Allow yourself time to relax and integrate the healing effects. Be kind to yourself.
- Gentle Movement – Stretching or light yoga can help shift stagnant energy.
Should You Worry About Feeling Unwell?
Experiencing mild discomfort after sound healing is usually part of the body’s natural adjustment process. However, if you consistently feel unwell after sessions, speak to your practitioner. It may be worth adjusting the intensity of the sound to find frequencies that feel better for you.
Experience Sound Healing in a Safe and Supportive Space
If you’re curious about sound healing and want a session tailored to you or your groups needs, I use a variety of instruments—including monolina, gongs, crystal singing bowls, bar chimes, buffalo drums, and koshi chimes—to create a deeply relaxing experience. Book a Sound Healing Session.