Sound Healing with Ravi Sappal

(Edited for Clarity, Brevity, and Engagement)

Erica:

Thank you for joining us today on Soulful Soundbites. I am pleased to have Ravi Sappal with us. Ravi, a longtime friend, has a unique relationship with sound, especially the shamanic drum. Today's conversation delves deep into how sound bridges our external and internal realities.

Ravi:

Thank you, Erica. Sound has always been a fascinating tool for me, a gateway to seen and unseen realms.

Erica:

I remember our training at Sacred Stream in Berkeley under Dr. Isa Guicciardi. And Ravi, I was surprised to learn about your background in Reiki, even managing a Reiki clinic!

Ravi:

Indeed! Before my journey into shamanism, I was introduced to Reiki around 2000, thanks to a Depth Hypnosis practitioner friend.

Erica:

Your energy work is profound. Let's start with traditional instruments and their role in bridging our worlds.

Ravi:

Certainly, the Buffalo drum stands out since it's been used since the dawn of shamanism over 20,000 years ago. Its percussive sound helps us access non-ordinary realities. But even our hands can produce sound with healing effects.

Erica:

Drums have always spoken to me, mimicking the heartbeat and leading us into a dreamlike, restful inner peace.

Ravi:

Exactly! The drum resembles the faster heartbeat of a baby, possibly linking us to early memories and feelings. Erica, remember hearing your baby's heartbeat?

Erica:

Yes, it was incredibly fast, reminiscent of Mother Earth's heartbeat.

Ravi:

And that connection to nature is at the heart of our shamanic practices. Some are more in tune with this energy, while others have lost touch. Instruments like the drum can help realign us.

Erica:

I've heard rattles evoke the sound of blood flow in the womb, even before the baby's heartbeat is audible.

Ravi:

Exactly. Cupping your hands over your ears lets you hear your blood flow. Consistent beats, whether from drums or rattles, guide us into a trance-like state, opening up a world of possibilities.

Erica:

Beyond drums and rattles, there are tuning forks and Tibetan bowls.

Ravi:

Indeed. Tuning forks are used in healing sessions, tuned to specific notes that induce various healing responses. Crystal bowls, when played, emit particular notes that can resonate deeply within us, causing profound emotional and energetic shifts.

Erica:

It's a testament to sound's power in breaking layers, allowing us to connect with our essence. This transcendent experience, often challenging to describe, changes our energy dynamics, making us more fluid and adaptable.

Ravi:

Our voices, too, produce healing sounds. Devotional songs, for instance, evoke profound emotions, releasing pent-up feelings and bringing therapeutic relief.

Erica:

And sometimes, even simple white noise or nature sounds offer calming relief.

Ravi:

Absolutely. Birdsong, wind rustling leaves, gentle rain, or ocean waves can help us relax. Intentional listening can transform our day.

Erica:

Ravi, your talent with the shamanic drum creates safe spaces for release and receptivity. How do drum healings work?

Ravi:

Your bond with the drum is crucial. Dr. Isa Guicciardi emphasizes activating and bonding with a new drum. In healings, the drum's vibrations address specific energy blockages, shattering or soothing them as needed.

Erica:

I've personally experienced this. The ground beneath me felt unstable, and a strong wave washed over me. Eventually, I felt reorganized, calm, and spacious.

Ravi:

It's transformative when done in person, given the focus and depth of the vibrations. While virtual sessions have value, the physical experience is unparalleled.

Erica:

For those new to sound as a healing tool, what's a simple step to start?

Ravi:

Begin by listening to music that resonates with you. And for deeper exploration, seek out specialized sound healers.

Erica:

Ravi, thank you for sharing your insights today. I eagerly await our next circle together.

Ravi:

Thank you, Erica. 

Erica:

Thank you, Friend.