Sound is the oldest form of healing and has been used for thousands of years in cultural and religious practices such as drumming, chanting, chanting, mantras, or other instruments such as singing bowls. We are now connecting these ancient practices with the scientific understanding of why tuning forks represent a simple yet powerful sound energy healing system.
Types of tuning forks
There are many options for using sound healing tuning forks. These forks can be used individually or in a multi-fork set. An example of a single fork is the OHM tuner. OHM is said to be the primordial sound of the universe and is considered a sacred sound. Crystal tuners have a high C frequency and are used to amplify the healing power of the sound energy of crystals. Tuning fork sets are based on different frequencies. Solfeggio forks use the 6 (or 9) frequencies of an ancient musical scale to balance the energy of the chakras. Planetary tuners are tuned to the frequencies of different planets and the astrological qualities of each planet. They can be used individually or together. Other sets are based on the notes of the musical scale or other number sequences like the Fibonacci numbers.
The tuning forks are either weighted or unweighted. Weightless forks are meant to ring in the ear and work in the energy field on the body. An example is the SomaEnergetics™ energy tuners. Other sound healing forks have weights on the end and are intended to be applied to the physical body at specific acupressure points. Vibrational energy travels along the energy channels or meridians of the body to provide relaxation, relieve muscle tension and pain, and help with physical symptoms or specific illnesses. Examples include Accutonics™ and SomaEnergetics™ Energy Tuners.
use a tuning fork
Tuning forks can be used either by a solo on the body or by practitioners on a client. The three basic parts of a fork are the stem, the throat, and the two tines. Some sound energy healing tuning forks have weights on the end: the weights lower the frequency so that the vibration can be felt in the body. A longer length fork will have a lower vibration frequency than a shorter fork. Other factors that contribute to the frequency include the length, width, thickness, and composition of the metal.
To use a tuning fork, hold the tuning fork by the stem and strike the end against a hard surface such as a shoe heel, hockey puck, or special trigger that comes with the kit. Bring the tuning fork to one ear, listen to the sound, and then bring it to the other ear so that both sides of the brain can register the sound. Two different sound healing forks can be put together, thus creating a new sound: the sound of the two forks and the interval between them. Hold one next to each ear, then reverse them.
To use a weighted fingerboard, hold the fork by placing three fingers around one side of the stem and your thumb on the other side. Strike the edge of the weight against a rubber trigger or hockey puck, the palm of your hand, or a tennis ball. You can also use a rubber mallet. Listen for the sound by holding the dumbbell open at least 1 to 2 inches from your ear. If you use two forks, one next to each ear and then across to the other ear. Place the bottom of the stem gently on the body at the appropriate point, using various pressures until vibration is felt.
The vibration of a well activated sound energy healing tuning fork can be sustained for 20 to 30 seconds. The vibration will continue even after the sound can no longer be heard. Factors that influence vibration duration include the location where they are applied and the needs of the individual at the time of treatment. If the fork loses vibration quickly, you may be clamping it incorrectly. Another explanation is that the body quickly absorbs sound. If the sound is quickly absorbed, the application can be repeated.
technical learning
A variety of tuning forks are available for purchase. Many techniques can be learned by reading instructions or watching DVDs. Some manufacturers offer training courses and workshops that can lead to professional certification. Tuning forks can also be easily incorporated into other practices, such as massage therapy, reiki, and chiropractic.