Sound Therapy is the use of therapeutic sound, music and instruments to improve health and wellbeing. Our method of sound therapy (known as the BAST method) is the result of 22 years of research and development. As well as conducting our own research we also draw on the latest developments in sound cognition, music psychology and medical ethno-musicology to inform our work.
The British Academy of Sound Therapy (BAST) was formed in 2000 and was the first training school to offer formal qualifications in sound therapy. As well as being a training provider we are an organisation that is dedicated to creating a growing network of research, development and projects with the aim of and playing techniques to affect the mind, body and emotions using three main approaches:
1. Sound Induced Altered State of Consciousness. Sound applied in specific ways can enable people to achieve a deep and natural state of relaxation known as an Altered State of Consciousness (ASC). Research has shown that being in an ASC results in many different positive health bene ts such as reduced muscle tension, lower blood pressure and emotional and mental wellbeing.
2. Group and Interactive Methods. These methods combine therapeutic techniques with games and interactive work to enhance communication, creativity, expression and joy. We achieve this through sonic art, story- telling, performance, games and creative music making. This ‘arts in health’ approach is becoming increasingly more popular in mainstream healthcare settings and offers so many different ways to work in the community.
3. Self-Reflection and Enquiry. In addition to using therapeutic sound we use a simple technique for self-reflection and inquiry known as ‘The 5Rs Model of Experiential Processing’. This simple 5 step method enables a person to explore their personal healing journey and make positive changes to their life by becoming more self-aware.
