The Tibetan Singing Bowl: An Ancient Instrument of Healing and Clarity

Tibetan singing bowl is the name used around the world for a small to medium-sized inverted bell that makes a beautiful sound when struck or rubbed. Typically associated with Tibetan Buddhism, this instrument is believed to possess special qualities that greatly enhance focus and promote healing. It’s also known by other names such as Himalayan singing bowl, sound bowl, healing bowl, Tibetan bell, and prayer bowl.

Traditionally used in Himalayan homes and monasteries, singing bowls marked the beginning and end of meditation sessions. In addition, the bowls are believed to release good wishes into the universe, so Hindus and Buddhists use them ritually to enhance mental focus, harmony, and inner peace.

Physically, Tibetan singing bowls produce harmonious vibrations that are believed to have healing effects. Due to the high water content in our bodies, the vibrations may positively charge their water molecules, creating a harmonious environment that supports overall physical healing. This in turn promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and alleviates physical tension. Tibetan singing bowls are believed to align and balance the body’s energy centers, known as chakras. On a higher level, the precious existence and marvelous sounds of musical instruments like Tibetan singing bowls are considered physical relics of past spiritual practitioners who journeyed within and immersed themselves in inner Heavenly Melodies.

Supreme Master Ching Hai (vegan) has shared this spiritual wisdom on many occasions while benevolently imparting the Quan Yin Method to the public. She encourages everyone to adopt the compassionate vegan lifestyle and seek immediate enlightenment through connection with a true living Master, who possesses the ultimate knowledge of the inner Divine Music.

“Our Quan Yin Method is named after this quality of the Heavenly teaching; because ‘Quan’ means the observation, ‘Yin’ means this musical sound. In the old times, when people still had a very convenient connection with Heaven, we always heard this music. Therefore, we tried to make many musical instruments which have lasted until today. And we have a lot of kinds of imitations of the Heavenly teaching. So, we have the church bells, the harp, the flute, the piano, the zither, etc. […] Now, if the man-made physical music could comfort the people when they departed from this world and could comfort the hell beings, then we can imagine how much greater a comfort we would get while we are still living and if we get direct original music from Heaven. […]”