The functioning of gongs and overtones
How sound calms the body and leads the attention inwards
From sound to stillness
Large gongs, such as those by Paiste, Samadhi or Gongland work with a rich and complex field of overtones. These overtones are not individual tones, but together form a sound fabric that can touch the body and consciousness on multiple layers.
What many people experience is that these sounds deeply calm the nervous system. The continuous, undulating sound invites the body to release tension, deepen the breath and turn the attention inwards. For a while, the body does not have to do anything, solve anything, only receive.
Relaxation, regulation and inner spaces
Within a process of illness, this deep relaxation can be particularly valuable. Not because the sound cures or takes away the illness, but because the body and mind can enter a state of deep regulation and relaxation. From that state, more space is often created to feel what is there, without direct resistance.
Besides physical relaxation, there is also a clear inner and spiritual dimension. The rich spectrum of overtones allows the mind to let go of its usual control and analysis. Many people experience this as a form of deep meditation, in which:
thoughts soften, the present moment becomes more palpable, acceptance can arise naturally and the feeling of ‘fighting something’ temporarily disappears
In that sense, sound can be healing: not as a means to fix something, but as a bedding in which the system comes to rest and the moment can be accepted as it is. For many people, that very experience, not having to struggle for a moment, but being allowed to be, is an enormous liberation.
In this, the operation of overtones is not unique to gongs. We also recognise this principle in great choral works, Gregorian chant, sacred music and other forms of sound that work with rich harmonic layers. There, too, a sense of depth, coherence and inner stillness emerges.
In this experience, sound is not so much something that does something to consciousness, but rather a field in which consciousness can recognise itself. The rich overtones invite one to let go of the usual identification with thinking and doing, allowing a natural shift towards being more simply present.
What is then often experienced is not “expansion” in the sense of something being added, but a recognition of what is already there: an all-encompassing awareness, in which body, breath, sound and silence are no longer experienced as separate. In this sense, experience deepens as recognising the ‘I Am’ the ‘I Am’ itself: not as a concept, but as direct, non-dual experience.
This deepening occurs naturally, without effort. Sound acts not as a means, but as a bed in which the distinction between listener and sound softens and sometimes disappears altogether.
What we carefully discern here is that gongs do not replace medical treatment and do not cure diseases. Their power lies in supporting relaxation, awareness and inner space. This is why we prefer to speak of healing experience rather than cure.
experiencing sound and resonance in the Sound Chapel
The best way to know which gong and/or overtone instrument suits you is to hear it, and feel it.In silence, in resonance, in the space of the Sound Chapel.
Here you will experience a wide collection of Gongs and overtone instruments live. Carried by more than 20 years of experience in sound concerts, retreats and sound healing.
You will be guided 1-on-1 in finding a gong that truly resonates with you or your practice. A carefully curated
selection of instruments that are energetically and sonically right.
Would you like to schedule a no-obligation listening session or have a question?
Then fill in the form as completely as possible and we will contact you at a convenient time to either schedule a listening session or answer your question.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
What exactly do gongs and overtones do to the body?
The sound of a gong consists of several layers at once. These overtones act directly on the nervous system, often causing the body to relax naturally. Breathing deepens, tension decreases and attention shifts inwards.
Is a gong session meant as treatment or therapy?
No. Gongs do not replace medical treatment and do not cure diseases.
The effect lies in supporting relaxation and awareness, allowing the body and mind to enter a more regulated state.
Why do people experience a gong as so profound?
The broad spectrum of overtones means the mind has less to analyse.
This creates space where thoughts soften and the present moment becomes more palpable. Many people experience this as a form of deep meditation.
What is meant by a ‘healing experience’?
By healing, we do not mean fixing or repairing something.
It refers to an experience in which the system comes to rest and space is created to be with what is, without immediate resistance.
Is this experience only possible with gongs?
No. The principle of overtones is also found in, for example, choral singing, Gregorian music and other forms of sound.
Gongs are distinguished by the intensity and breadth of the sound field, which often makes the experience more direct and physical.
If you have any questions about the gongs, or would like advice, please feel free to phone
contact us. We are happy to take all the time we can for you: +31 6 23 91 52 77
We want to emphasise that:
Gongs singing bowls within sound therapy work to support your personal growth process and well-being. Although the vibrations can mean a lot, they never replace the medical care of a doctor or therapist in case of serious complaints. Be good to yourself and when in doubt, always consult a professional.