Discovering the Healing Power of Sound Yoga for Injury Recovery

Have you ever heard of Sound Yoga? Neither had I before being introduced to it through the lovely Nicole Turnbull who then in turn introduced me to Siddhi Shakti . At first I thought, “this isn’t going to work” because by nature I tend to be hesitant to accept anything new but for the purpose of research and science I introduced it as an option in My Social Support Network for our members. I even said to Siddhi that if the members don’t like it, we won’t keep offering it. Well suffice to say, the people with injuries in the program loved the benefits and months later the program is going strong.

Sound Yoga is unusual but oddly effective. It’s a fantastic way to help your body heal, especially if you’ve been injured. It takes some getting used to and if you want to try it, here is short snippet to listen and try.

Episode 8 - Sound Yoga with Siddhi Shakti and MSSN members

What is Sound Yoga and how can it benefit people with injuries?

Sound Yoga, also known as Nada Yoga, is a practice that combines yoga movements with sound vibrations. These sounds can come from musical instruments like gongs, singing bowls, or even from our own voices through chanting. The idea is that the vibrations from these sounds help to relax the body and mind, making it easier to heal. In all honesty, I was very dubious and wasn't sure if our #injuredworkers would go for it. I'm pleased to say I stand corrected. One of our very "locked in" injured workers has completely come out of his shell through participating in a weekly session. He went from having his camera off, not speaking or engaging to camera on, laughing and wanting to go outside!

Unlocking Healing and Stress Relief: The Power of Vagal Tone and Sound Yoga

What is Vagal Tone?

We first need to understnd the science of "why does this work?" and that is all to do with the vagus nerve. This nerve is a critical part of our nervous system and plays a major role in regulating stress and calming the body. Vagal tone refers to the activity of the vagus nerve. A higher vagal tone means your body can relax faster after stress. This is important for overall health because it helps reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and enhance mental well-being. Critical for people with #psychologicalinjuries

?How to Improve Vagal Tone

Improving vagal tone can be achieved through various methods, including deep breathing, cold exposure, singing and yes, Sound Yoga. When your vagal tone is high, you’re better equipped to handle stress and your body can heal more efficiently. With people who have a psychological injury, this becomes an important steppingstone in overall recovery.

Several studies highlight the benefits of improving vagal tone and practicing Sound Yoga:

Vagal Tone and Stress: Research has shown that any activity that can increase vagal tone can significantly reduce stress levels. This is because a well-toned vagus nerve helps your body switch from a state of stress (fight or flight) to a state of relaxation (rest and digest) more effectively. Other activities that help improve vagal tone are deep breathing, singing, laughing, mediation, tai chi, yoga and social connections.

Sound Yoga and Healing: Studies indicate that Sound Yoga can speed up recovery and reduce pain by creating a relaxed state conducive to healing. The sound vibrations help in lowering stress hormones and promoting tissue repair.

How Does Sound Yoga Help with Injuries?

1. Promotes Relaxation: When you’re injured, your body is under stress. Sound Yoga helps to calm your mind and relax your muscles. This can reduce pain and tension, making it easier for your body to repair itself.
2. Reduces Pain: Research shows that sound vibrations can help reduce pain. The soothing sounds used in Sound Yoga can distract the mind from pain and create a sense of peace and well-being.
3. Improves Sleep: Good sleep is crucial for healing. The relaxation from Sound Yoga can help you sleep better, giving your body more time to recover.
4. Boosts Mood: Being injured can be tough emotionally. The positive energy from sound vibrations can lift your mood, reducing feelings of frustration or sadness that often accompany injuries.?

Research Supporting Sound Yoga

Several studies have looked into the benefits of Sound Yoga. Here are a few findings:

• Pain Reduction: A study found that patients who practiced Sound Yoga experienced less pain compared to those who didn’t. The sound vibrations helped to ease their discomfort.
• Faster Recovery: Another study showed that people who included Sound Yoga in their recovery routine healed faster than those who relied only on traditional physical therapy.
• Improved Mental Health: Research indicates that Sound Yoga can help reduce anxiety and depression, common issues for people dealing with injuries. The calming sounds help to clear the mind and promote a sense of inner peace.?

Final Thoughts

I honestly didn’t think it would work for I am ever the critic when it comes to new things proposing to be good for injured worker recovery, but I have tried it as well and I have seen our #injuredworkers give it a go and I can’t believe the differences in recovery. One of our injured workers had a terrible stutter due to stress and with the sound yoga that symptom disappears. The other thing I have seen is amazing group engagement with the workers who go to that session and their overall recovery rate is better than for those that don't go.

I have to admit that #SoundYoga really is incredible for supporting recovery as well as being a gentle and effective way to support the body’s healing process.

By integrating the power of sound with traditional yoga practices, it offers a unique approach to recovery and who doesn’t love a little unique with tradition. Whether you injured worker is dealing with a minor injury or something more serious or you yourself want to prevent illness or have a friend that could benefit then Sound Yoga can provide the relaxation, pain relief, and emotional support you or your friend needs to get back on your feet.

So why not give it a try for you or your injured worker! Your body and mind will thank you!

?? MSSN Podcast Episode 8: Sound Healing is OUT TODAY! To listen to the full episode, click the link or image below and immerse yourself in a meaningful and informative conversation. ?? https://bit.ly/mssn-podcast-ep08

#MSSN #MSSNPodcast #soundhealing #healing #stayingZen #injuredWorkers #ptsd #chantingmantra #soundyoga #mentalhealth #wellbeing #wellness #workerscomp