There is nothing quite like the sound of Tibetan singing bowls.
One of the most common questions I am asked is how to choose a high-quality singing bowl for home use.
Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a singing bowl for its authentic and resonant sound.
- Know the history of the bowl: Understand who made it, where it was made, and the materials used. The seller should provide you with this information.
- Choose handmade over machine-made: Handmade bowls offer a richer resonance and multi-layered sound compared to machine-made ones, which tend to have a single tone and lack vibrations.
- How to identify handmade bowls: Machine-made bowls are perfectly circular and smooth, while handmade ones feature natural indentations from the shaping process. Handmade bowls feel warmer and softer to the touch. Avoid heavily painted or machine-engraved bowls.
- Test the bowl before buying: Make sure it feels comfortable in your hand and has a pleasing sound when struck.
- Consider the weight of the bowl: Heavier bowls provide more density and depth of resonance.
- Size and pitch: Smaller bowls have a higher pitch that activates upper chakras, but may be unsettling if used for long periods. Larger bowls produce a deeper sound and are ideal for balancing and grounding. For anxiety, overwhelm, stress, or strong emotions, lower-sounding bowls are recommended.
It may seem like a lot to consider when choosing a singing bowl, but as someone passionate about sound instruments, I want you to have the best experience possible.
If there is one key takeaway from this information, it is the importance of choosing a handmade bowl over a machine-made one for superior sound quality.
