Whether it's because of the stress from living through a global pandemic or burnout from hustle culture, it's undeniable that more and more people are looking for ways to recalibrate their inner balance. And sound healing is proving to be one of the ways that busy urbanites use to intentionally create calm in their lives, the kind of calm that usually comes from a week-long retreat to an island with no connection.
But leaving the city for a retreat is like putting a plaster over an open wound - it's a temporary measure that doesn't quite get to the root of the issue. Going back to the hustle means gradually accumulating stress again, says Masumi Nelson, sound healer at Altered States.
"What we need to realise is that we have everything we need within us, without having to go look for it elsewhere. Being connected to our true self and having gratitude for our surroundings is the best [way] to live our lives in the city," she says.
Nelson's connection to sound is an intimate one. Growing up in the deep countryside of Japan, she's forged a strong connection to both the natural world and the spiritual one, but it wasn't until her pregnancy in 2012 that she discovered crystal singing bowls.
"I felt my energy shift. Some fundamental part of myself was illuminated and I began to feel a strong sense of gratitude for who I am. From there, my sound healing journey began," she says. And what a journey it has been - she's performed at the Ise Shrine, known as the spiritual home of Japan and the most sacred temple in the country, as well as the Bali Spirit Festival in 2017.
Surrounded by crystal singing bowls in iridescent shades of white, amber and pale green, she creates a harmony by tapping or circling the bowls, and each produces a different tone.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Check mate
For DIOR's cruise 2025 collection, Maria Grazia Chiuri weaves Scottish heritage into modern fashion, creating a dialogue between tradition and rebellion.
Glow-Up Goals
Expert-approved aesthetic treatments to get you looking refreshed, natural, and party-ready.
All The Right Notes
Singapore’s biggest Mandopop star to date, JJ LIN reflects on his two-decade career before embarking on the final leg of his world tour.
Dubai: Capital Of The Future
The most visited megalopolis in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is a vibrant oasis of modernity; a hotbed of exciting new openings and endless plans.
ARTFUL Indulgence
Le Pristine Singapore IS THE NEW EPICUREAN ESCAPE FOR ART AND DESIGN AFICIONADOS.
Talk of the Town
Miu Miu CONTINUES DEEPENING ITS TIES TO THE art world WITH A PROJECT THAT BRINGS TOGETHER FILM, MOVEMENT AND CONVERSATION.
See Her At N°5
Margot Robbie embodies timeless chic as the new face of Chanel N°5. In this ELLE exclusive, the actress shares her take on the iconic scent.
A closer look at...
You don’t have to be a Warhammer or Arthurian legend geek to appreciate Roger Dubuis’ latest Knights of the Round Table timepiece.
BLUE Paradise
With the support of Rolex and Mission Blue, the Nusa Penida Hope Spot has become a sterling example of ocean conservation.
Counting the Métiers
In this ELLE Singapore exclusive, artistic director of watches and jewellery Francesca Amfitheatrof lays bare what goes into the making a LOUIS VUITTON high jewellery collection.
