Simply explained: how gong sounds affect hormones

You may have already experienced how deeply the frequencies of a gong can penetrate your body and mind. It is therefore not surprising that the effect of sounds on our hormone balance can also be quite astonishing. Various studies have shown impressive results, particularly in connection with stress and relaxation. In our article today, we want to give you an overview of the effect the frequencies of a gong can have on the hormone balance in your body.

Sounds can reduce the stress hormone cortisol

Briefly explained: stress is responsible for many imbalances in our body and mind. Prolonged stress causes our body to produce too much cortisol. We often don't realize for a long time that we are in a state of stress and are already in a permanent state of overload.

Effect of sound: One of the most important findings of sound research is its impressive effect on the stress hormone cortisol. Studies show that relaxing sounds - such as those of a gong - can sustainably reduce the level of cortisol in the blood. A lower cortisol level means less stress and faster regeneration of the body.

Sounds can increase the release of serotonin and dopamine (happiness hormones)

Briefly explained: serotonin and dopamine are neurotransmitters in our body that are responsible for regulating mood, appetite and sleep. They therefore also have a major influence on how happy we feel at any given time.

Effect of sound: Meditative sounds can increase the production of serotonin and dopamine and thus contribute to more feelings of happiness and an overall better mood. In particular, the deep vibrations of a gong or the resonant tones of singing bowls can evoke deep emotional reactions and lead to an increased release of dopamine.

Sounds can stimulate melatonin production (sleep hormone)

In brief: melatonin is largely responsible for regulating our sleep-wake rhythm. The sleep hormone is released by the pineal gland in the brain, especially in the evening or when we relax.

Effect of sound: Melatonin production in our body can be stimulated not only by light conditions, but also by sound meditation. Gong baths, gong meditations or singing bowl meditations promote a deep state of relaxation and thus stimulate the release of the sleep hormone. This not only leads to better sleep and a restful break, but also to better general health.

Sounds for a holistically healthy lifestyle

So you can see that the effect of sounds goes far beyond pure relaxation and that they can have an impressive influence on our hormone balance: They can lower the stress hormone cortisol, promote the release of happiness hormones such as serotonin and dopamine and stimulate melatonin production for better sleep. Using sounds can therefore be a natural and holistic way to reduce stress and improve your general well-being.

• Study "Reducing stress and strengthening health with Peter Hess sound massage" - A pilot study by the European Association of Sound Massage Therapy in cooperation with the Dr. Tanja Grotz Institute
• Study"Effects of Singing Bowl Sound Meditation on Mood, Tension, and Well-being: An Observational Study" by Tamara L. Goldsby et al. (2016)