You just saw a singing bowl and a mallet on a shelf somewhere, you’re most likely going to strike it.
It seems to be a universal agreement, singing bowls, sometimes referred to as Buddhist bowls, are simply charming, by looks and sound.
Both individual users and sound healing practitioners are buying them by numbers. They are easy-to-use tools for meditation and stress relief, at home and in a sound healing setting.
Here’s an easy guide on how to handle your fascinating piece of craft, play it and take care of it.
How to Play the Singing Bowl?
Whether you’re looking for a clear or a deep tone, the type of sound you will get from playing the bowl depends on these criteria -apart from the bowl quality:
- handheld, or laid on a cushion
- the type of mallet you’re using
- the way you’re applying the mallet on the bowl
- position on the body
With a little practice, you will learn how to play them effectively, harness their vibrations for purposes like relieving anxiety, relaxation, and supporting music therapy practices.
1. Handheld or on a cushion
The less you touch the sides of a bowl, the more freedom it will have to resonate! This means that at all times, when you strike a bowl, avoid having your hands and fingers touch it.
- Small bowls: place them on your palm, ensuring your fingers don’t touch the sides to avoid muting the sound.
- Larger bowls: position them on a cushion to stabilize them while playing. And depending on the surface you have laid them on, you can even place your hand inside the bowl holding its center bottom to ensure stability, while playing with the other hand.
2. Type of mallet
Harder mallets produce brighter tones, while softer mallets create darker tones. This is mainly due to the dampening effect soft mallets have, absorbing more of the higher frequencies of an instrument, resulting in a warmer and deeper sound. Below is a list of mallets, from the hardest to the softest.
- Wooden Mallets: they produce clear high-pitched tones, especially used for smaller bowls
- Wool or Yarn Mallets (soft mallet): they produce clear high-pitched tones, especially used for smaller bowls
- Suede-Covered Mallets: they create warm, mellow tones with rich overtones, used best for medium to large bowls and when a more meditative sound is preferred. They’re ideal for beginners as it provides better grip and less slipping.
- Felt or Cloth Mallets (firm mallet): these produce gentle, quiet tones with reduced sharpness. Their sound is dimmed, making them ideal for subtle energy work or background soundscapes where a soft and non-invasive tone is preferred, ensuring the bowl’s sound does not interfere with the overall mix.
Check our store for a range cushions and mallets -with varying thickness and softness.
3. Playing the bowl
- Striking: lightly tap the bowl’s outer rim or edge to create a single, clear note. You have to experiment with it in order to get used to the intensity needed, depending on the softness or loudness of the sound you’re looking for.
- Rimming (circular motion):
- Hold the mallet at a slight angle to the rim.
- Gently circle the bowl’s rim using consistent pressure and speed.
- Gradually increase the pressure to amplify the sound.
- Avoid abrupt movements to keep the tone smooth.
4. Position on body
- Singing bowl massage: when a singing bowl is placed and played directly on a body part, like the chest or the stomach, its vibrations will travel fast through the tissues and bones. This will create a massage-like effect that can release physical tension and calm the nervous system. This technique is sometimes integrated in conventional massage sessions.
However, avoid placing heavy bowls directly on delicate areas, such as the throat or face - Sound bath: bowl resonance and energy flow interact with the body’s energy field. This has a physical and psychological effect on the body. Depending on which body part it is placed, the corresponding chakras are stimulated.
Example: Root Chakra Activation Practice. To promote grounding, the bowl can be placed on the lower abdomen or the base of the spine. The vibrations create a physical sense of stability and balance.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Singing Bowl
Proper care ensures your singing bowl remains in optimal condition.
Cleaning Tips
- Daily Use: Wipe the bowl with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and residue oils -if you use oils in your practice.
- Deep Cleaning: Occasionally clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that can tarnish the metal. Dry the bowls immediately with a dry cloth.
- Removing Patina: Use a gentle metal polish for brass or bronze bowls if you prefer a shiny finish. However, many users prefer the natural aging (patina) for its charming character.
Storage
- Place the bowl on a padded cushion or in a padded bag to protect it from dents or scratches.
- Store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.
Mallet and Accessories
- Clean mallets and cushions regularly.
- Replace worn-out mallets to maintain sound quality.
Conclusion
Practice makes perfect! Attend sessions of other practitioners, listen to online videos, evaluate and find your preferences and own identity in playing these charismatic instruments.
Mastering the art of playing a singing bowl and integrating it into a sound healing ritual can be charming and even transformative.
Caring for your bowl ensures it continues to produce resonant tones for years to come. Cherish this tool like you would any other tool you’re using in your life.
Check out our store for a wide range of bowls and their accessories.
