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Sound healing is a powerful, transformative, non invasive practice that has been used or thousands of years to improve physical pain, promote relaxation, emotional release, and balances the body, mind and spirit.
However, as with any therapeutic modality, it is essential to ensure that proper care is taken to safeguard participants' wellbeing - and this begins with checking contraindications.
Lately, there has been a noticeable rise in “sound healings” being offered by individuals who may not have received the in-depth training necessary to facilitate these sessions safely. While sound is an incredible tool for healing, when sound healing instruments are incorrectly used on or off the body, without proper training & knowledge, it can have unintended negative effects on those who receive it.
Why Are Contraindications Important?
A contraindication is a condition or circumstance that may make a particular treatment unsuitable or even potentially harmful to an individual. Just as a doctor, breathwork facilitator or massage therapist would ask about any pre-existing health conditions before beginning, a trained sound healing practitioner should always check contraindications before leading a session.
Some common contraindications in sound healing include:
Pregnancy (especially in the first trimester) – Pregnant women are advised to be cautious when participating in any form of sound healing, especially during the first 12 weeks, by avoiding sound instruments being placed on the body.
Pacemakers or implanted medical devices – Some frequencies, particularly those played on the body, can interfere with electronic medical devices when used on the body. For people with an implanted heart pacemaker, stent, or shunt, always keep the sound instruments at a minimum distance of 20 cm, and never use them directly on or near metal implants.
Severe mental health conditions – People with conditions such as schizophrenia, sound epilepsy, or PTSD may have heightened sensitivity to sound, and certain vibrations may trigger distressing responses.
Recent surgeries or injuries – Deep vibrations can affect tissue healing and circulation, so it’s important to ensure that sound healing will not interfere with recovery.
Sensitivity to sound or frequency-induced migraines – Some people may have hypersensitivity to sound and certain frequencies, which could cause discomfort rather than relaxation.
A well-trained sound healing practitioner will always ask about these conditions before a session to ensure that the experience is safe, supportive, and beneficial for every participant.
The Risk of Unqualified Practitioners
As sound healing grows in popularity, so too does the number of individuals offering these sessions without the necessary qualifications or understanding of safety protocols. While many of these individuals may have good intentions, there is a real risk when practitioners have not undergone the proper in-depth training.
Some courses offer quick "certifications" in sound healing, but a short weekend course does not equate to full professional training. This is similar to assuming someone is a trained nurse, only to later discover they have merely completed a basic first aid course. Sound is a powerful medicine, and if used without the proper understanding, it can cause harm rather than healing.
Without thorough training, a facilitator may:
Fail to check contraindications, potentially exposing someone to harm.
Lack the knowledge to create a safe and supportive healing space.
Improper/overuse of dissonance.
Play too loudly and make the attendee feel quite ill.
Use instruments incorrectly, on and off the body, leading to energetic imbalances rather than restoration.
Be unprepared to support someone who experiences an emotional or physical reaction or release of trauma during the session.
Protecting Yourself & the Integrity of the Sound Healing Industry
If you are considering attending a sound healing, it’s important to:
Ask your practitioner about their qualifications. A well-trained facilitator will be happy to discuss their education and experience.
See if they are a member of the International Institute for Complimentary Therapists. A practitioner cannot become a member of this institute without an industry recognised qualification and current insurance. Practitioners cannot obtain insurance without the recognised and relevant qualifications.
Ensure they check contraindications before the session. If this is not done, it’s a red flag that they may not be properly trained.
Listen to your body. If something feels painful, let the facilitator know.
Seek practitioners who have studied with a recognised sound healing academy.
Ask your practitioner if they have a current first aid qualification. This will compliment any other qualifications they may have and show they are genuinely interested in your well being.
By being mindful of these factors, you protect your own wellbeing and help maintain the integrity of sound healing as a respected therapeutic practice.
Final Thoughts
Sound healing is a beautiful and deeply restorative practice, but like any healing modality, it must be facilitated with knowledge, care, and responsibility. The increasing popularity of sound healing is wonderful, but with that comes the responsibility to ensure it is done ethically and safely.
A trained sound healing practitioner will always take the time to check contraindications, ensuring that the session is not only effective but also safe and supportive. If you’re ever unsure, ask questions - because your health and wellbeing should always be the top priority.
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