My First Group Sound Bath Experience and Lessons Learned

Hosting my first group sound bath was a journey filled with anticipation, excitement, and, admittedly, a fair share of self-doubt. As someone who navigates life with ADHD, I often find myself caught in a whirlwind of thoughts and feelings, which can sometimes be overwhelming. This experience was no exception. While I wanted to create a serene space for others to relax and heal, I found myself grappling with anxiety and self-criticism.

In the days leading up to the sound bath, I envisioned a perfect experience—an atmosphere of tranquility, soothing sounds, and a community coming together to unwind. However, as the day approached, I felt a growing sense of pressure to make it flawless. What if I forgot something? What if people didn’t enjoy it? These thoughts raced through my mind, fueled by the fear of not living up to my own expectations.

When the day finally arrived, people expressed how much they enjoyed the session. Yet, amidst the positive feedback, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had fallen short. I wished I had reminded everyone to drink plenty of water, turned the lock off my ipad, made it so people weren't too near the speaker or perhaps I should have adjusted the sound frequencies or had different music in the background, It’s easy to fall into a spiral of “what ifs,” especially for those of us who are prone to self-criticism.

One of the most debilitating aspects of anxiety is how it can cloud our perception of our accomplishments. Instead of celebrating the successful aspects of the sound bath, I found myself focusing on what I could have done better. This self-critical lens is something I’m learning to navigate, particularly as I adjust to medication for my ADHD. It’s a process of understanding that I can’t do everything perfectly, and that’s okay.

Sound healing, in many ways, is a remedy for this anxiety. The gentle vibrations and calming sounds create a space where we can let go of our worries and simply be. It’s a reminder that relaxation is not only about the environment we create but also about the mindset we bring to it. I hope that, despite my own struggles, those who attended found a moment of peace and calm amidst their busy lives.

As I reflect on the experience, I realise that it’s essential to embrace the imperfections. Each sound bath is an opportunity to grow and learn, not just for my attendees but for me as well. I want to remind myself that the fear of not being the best shouldn’t hold me back from sharing this healing practice with others. Instead of quitting or shying away from hosting another session, I’m choosing to focus on the joy it brings to those who participate.

Life is a beautiful journey filled with ups and downs, and so is the process of self-discovery. It’s about learning to let go of the fear of judgment and accepting that every experience is a stepping stone to something greater. I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned and the connections I’ve made through this sound bath. While there will always be room for improvement, I am hopeful that my next session will continue to bring relaxation and joy to others.

In the end, it’s not just about me or my anxieties; it’s about creating a space where everyone can find a moment of peace. So, here’s to embracing the journey, imperfections and all!

Lisa Jo