Sound Bath

A sound bath is a relaxing, meditative experience where you lie down and listen as layers of sound wash over you. Instruments like gongs, singing bowls and chimes are played slowly, so the tones ring out, blend and fade. There's no water involved and nothing to do except listen. Many people find it deeply calming, and plenty drift off completely.

The gong is the big one, a large metal disc played softly with a padded beater. Its sound builds into a deep, shimmering roar and then melts away.

Singing bowls are metal or crystal bowls that ring when you tap them or run a stick around the rim. Each bowl holds a long, humming note.

Chimes, bells and tuning forks add bright, high sounds that sparkle over the top.

A rain stick is a hollow tube filled with small beads or seeds. Tip it slowly and it sounds just like falling rain.

Some sound baths also use drums, a shruti box or the human voice, humming or chanting softly.

You settle on a mat, get comfortable under a blanket and close your eyes. Your Activity Leader might start with a few slow breaths to help you arrive. Then the playing begins, moving gently from quiet to rich and full, then back to stillness. You don't have to do anything at all. Let your mind wander, notice the sounds or just rest. At the end there's a moment to come round slowly before you sit up.

It's about as beginner-friendly as anything gets. There's nothing to learn, no poses and no right way to feel. Some people see colours or feel the sound in their chest, others simply feel sleepy, and some just enjoy a rare chance to lie still in the forest. All of that is normal.

Bring warm clothes, thick socks or a blanket, as it's easy to get cold when you're lying still outdoors, even on a summer's day. A rolled-up jumper under your head or knees can make lying down much comfier. Leave your phone on silent, or better still, back in your tent.

You might also like Mindfulness, Qigong and Yoga.

See all Camp Wildfire activities