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What is Sound Healing?Sound Healing is the use of instruments or music to relax the brain so the body can activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the part of our nervous system that allows the body to rest, digest, and heal itself). Sound Healing is a powerful therapy that combines different healing sounds, music, and special sound instruments to improve our multidimensional well-being. We primarily utilize gongs, Himalayan singing bowls, crystal singing bowls, harmonium, voice, Koshi & Zaphir chimes, and other accessory instruments. Sound healing is a holistic practice that uses vibrations, through various sound tools such as singing bowls, tuning forks, and voice, to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. At Sound of a New Dawn, we believe in the power of sound to restore balance and harmony within the body, mind, and spirit. Our sessions are designed to help reduce stress, anxiety, and physical pain, as well as to enhance relaxation, focus, and creativity. Through the use of specific frequencies and harmonics, sound healing at Sound of a New Dawn aims to entrain the brain to move into deeper, more restful states, and to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. Whether it's through individual sessions, group sound baths, or educational workshops, we strive to create a nurturing and transformative experience for our clients.
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What are the benefits to Sound Healing?Sound Healing helps the brain relax and the body have time and space to heal itself. This is especially more potent with an intention of what you want your body to direct healing too, but the body has innate wisdom and performs beautifully all on its own. Sometimes the body just needs the brain to "get out of the way." Sound Healing helps reduce anxiety, clear blocks, and reduce tension and worry. It also promotes healing to anything your body is facing, and promotes better sleep, clarity and focus.
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What's the difference between the Sound Nest and Inner Wolf Retreat Space?The Sound Nest is Dawn's smaller studio near Alexander / 20 min outside of Asheville and holds 8 people max. The sound is tight with the invitation to immerse and luxuriate in the sound waves. I have isolated a style of playing the instruments that relaxes the brainwaves to the theta state where deep healing, intention, and a nervous system reset occurs. I love to tailor the session to all who are present and the sound is different each time. The Inner Wolf is my creation with my business partner David Heiss and set up as a retreat space and also for special events and regular sound sessions. It is in a quieter area near Wolf Laurel, 35 minutes from downtown Asheville and surrounded by nature, a river running thru the property, and several flowing ponds. We've turned 3 workshop bays into cozy overnight rooms too. The sound room is in a sturdy 3 story wooden barn where the sound waves resonate thru the wood too. It’s a larger space that holds up to 30. Depending on the schedule, usually on Saturdays David and I play the instruments for the sessions together at the Inner Wolf, blending styles, and with more hands. We also love to tailor the sessions and ask for intentions and the sound is different each time depending on those attending. Both are great experiences with a lot of similarities. Hope to share sound healing with you soon, one place or the other!
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What is a Sound Healing Session with Dawn like?First we have tea and settle in a bit and chat about your intention for the session for about 15 minutes. This process makes the sound healing more potent and customized. Then you get comfy in the sound healing studio, laying down and supported by pillows, blankets, a BioMat, even a mattress if getting on the floor is not preferred. Dawn then leads you through a breathing exercise to begin relaxing the body. When the sound healing begins, Dawn plays instruments like gongs, crystal singing bowls, Himalayan brass bowls, the harmonium, and others to help the body enter a state of healing, relaxation, & re-centering for about 45-60 minutes. Many people fall asleep, some are in between awake and asleep, and the experience is deeply relaxing. We have about 15 minutes after the session for sharing, integrating, and grounding.
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What do I bring with me to a Sound Healing session?Bring anything you like to help you be most comfortable--favorite pillows, supports, cozy blankets, eye cover. Dawn has supports and cushions to lay on in the Sound Nest, & plenty of pillows and blankets. Our new location at the Inner Wolf Retreat Space has memory foam cushions to lay on and a few pillows for support, but you will need to bring your own pillows and blankets to events at this location. Most of all, bring an open mind and open heart, and your body will know what to do from there! All you have to do is BREATHE!
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Can I book a private yoga or sound healing session?Yes! I would love to tailor a sound session or a yoga class just for you and for what you are facing in your life currently. Please reach out to me and book the session on the web site.
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What is a gong?A metal disk often with a turned rim, giving a resonant note when struck. Is it going to be played like in a heavy metal band or the Gong Show?? NO! Although the gong is effective with a crash and loud wash, the gong has a special quality when played differently that can relax the brain into the Theta brainwave state in sometimes as little as 90 seconds! Although the volume will crescendo and decrescendo, we play in a relaxing, transformative way.
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Why do they call it a sound bath?At Sound of a New Dawn, we call our practice a "sound bath" because it involves immersing participants in a meditative and healing experience using sound. Just as a traditional bath cleanses the physical body, a sound bath cleanses the mind, body, and spirit. This unique wellness experience incorporates various instruments such as crystal singing bowls, gongs, and chimes to produce therapeutic sounds and vibrations that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and facilitate a deep meditative state. The term "sound bath" reflects the idea of being surrounded by soothing and rejuvenating sound waves, allowing participants to soak in the calming and transformative effects of the harmonious vibrations. It's a holistic approach to well-being that nourishes the whole self, making it a fitting metaphor for our unique practice.
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What is Forest Bathing?Forest Bathing is time spent meditatively in nature. It is not a "bathing" process in terms of getting wet or being in a bath, rather "bathing" your senses with the green of trees and plants, & the sounds of nature. You can also practice Forest Bathing anywhere there is nature, not just a forest. It is a practice called shinrin-yoku that originated in Japan to encourage people to spend time in nature. In the warmer months, we often have a forest bathing session prior to the sound healing. We find being in nature prior to the sound healing helps everyone (including us!) to arrive in the present moment, ground, heightens the senses, and helps us tune in to our inner landscape as well. Time Magazine says it well, "This is not exercise, or hiking, or jogging. It is simply being in nature, connecting with it through our senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch. First, find a spot. Make sure you have left your phone and camera behind. You are going to be walking aimlessly and slowly. You don’t need any devices. Let your body be your guide. Listen to where it wants to take you. Follow your nose. And take your time. It doesn’t matter if you don’t get anywhere. You are not going anywhere. You are savoring the sounds, smells and sights of nature and letting the forest in. The key to unlocking the power of the forest is in the five senses. Let nature enter through your ears, eyes, nose, mouth, hands and feet. Listen to the birds singing and the breeze rustling in the leaves of the trees. Look at the different greens of the trees and the sunlight filtering through the branches. Smell the fragrance of the forest and breathe in the natural aromatherapy of phytoncides. Taste the freshness of the air as you take deep breaths. Place your hands on the trunk of a tree. Dip your fingers or toes in a stream. Lie on the ground. Drink in the flavor of the forest and release your sense of joy and calm. This is your sixth sense, a state of mind. Now you have connected with nature. You have crossed the bridge to happiness."
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What size private groups can you accommodate?The Sound Nest in Alexander can accommodate 8 people laying down; I have fit as many as 10 if you are comfortable being close and cozy with your loved ones. The Inner Wolf Retreat can accommodate 32 people laying down in the sound room. Overnight spaces house up to 10 people with plenty of room for camping as well.
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What if I need to cancel or reschedule?We know life gets slippery sometimes! Most of our events and sessions have a 24 hour prior to the session cancellation policy. Some are not refundable. On the ones with a 24 hour prior cancellation policy, we can refund back to the original payment method less any payment processing fees charged. We are a small business and the processing fees add up. If you can't make the session and it is less than 24 hours to the session, you are welcome to gift the time to someone else to attend. If you need to reschedule, please contact Dawn prior to 24 hours before the session and she is happy to help move the appointment . If you have a monthly sound healing membership at the Inner Wolf and have reserved a space for a session and then find yourself unable to make the session, please do let us know since we wait until all are present to begin the session.
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Why should I book a private sound healing session for my group or family?By opting for a private session, you have the opportunity to customize the experience to suit the specific needs and preferences of your group or family, whether it's for relaxation, stress relief, emotional wellness, or simply to bond and connect on a deeper level. Dawn uses various instruments such as crystal singing bowls, gongs, and harmonium to create soothing and harmonious vibrations that can help reduce stress, promote deep relaxation, and restore balance to the mind, body, and spirit. Additionally, booking a private session allows for a more personalized and intimate experience, tailored to the specific needs and preferences of your group or family. Whether you're looking to bond with loved ones, release tension, or simply unwind together, our private sound healing sessions provide a serene and tranquil space for collective rejuvenation and well-being. Dawn will work with you to guide the session, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and fully supported throughout the experience. Having a private session also affords those feeling emotional to be even more present and at ease with processing and supporting emotional well-being. Also, if you have a tendency to make sacred sleepy sounds (aka "snore") and you would feel more comfortable not in a larger group, a private or small session is a great option. On that note, I also have lots of pillows to support your airways while laying down. I believe no one should feel guilty or self-conscious about what sounds their body makes while you are relaxing. It is only in a safe, non-judgmental, relaxed space that true healing occurs. At Sound of a New Dawn, we firmly believe in the power of sound to facilitate healing and transformation, and we are committed to providing a meaningful and impactful experience for every participant. By booking a private session with me, you can look forward to a tailored and immersive sound healing journey that will leave your group or family feeling rejuvenated, connected, and uplifted.
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What if I snore??If you have a tendency to make sacred sleepy sounds (aka "snore"), please know that you are still welcome!! If you would feel more comfortable not in a larger group, a private or small session is a great option. On that note, I also have lots of pillows to support your airways while laying down, thereby lessening sleepy sounds. I believe no one should feel guilty or self-conscious about what sounds their body makes while you are relaxing. It is only in a safe, non-judgmental, relaxed space that true healing occurs. Trust what happens in a sound healing session is exactly what your body needs. Sometimes people hear the first tone and fall asleep, which I liken to the body just needing the brain to get entirely out of the way for healing. If your body needs more rest and you fall asleep, that is what you need that day.
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How do I book a session for myself and a friend?If you would like a private session for 2 people at the Sound Nest, choose Individual Session and the base price is for up to 3 people. Or click here: If you would like to reserve 2 spaces in a public group sound healing session, choose Public Group Session or click here: If you would like a private session at the Inner Wolf Retreat Space, please contact us and we will be happy to accommodate.
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I would like to rent the retreat space to host my own retreatMusic to our ears! You and your blessed attendees will love the peaceful nature of the retreat. Contact us to schedule a site visit, coordinate details, and to secure the dates you would like. The Inner Wolf Retreat Space can accommodate up to 32 people on site. We have rustic yet comfortable indoor housing with beds for up to 10 people and plenty of room in the flat field by the river for camping. We need to know how many people are in your group, whether you would like us to provide sound healing for your group as part of your retreat, whether you would like us to provide the food or if you / a caterer / chef will be. The onsite communal kitchen provides easy access for meal prep, but is not commercial grade. The toilets provided include one very clean and serviced weekly portaloo and an (also clean!) indoor Nature's Head composting toilet. We have found that this setup supports up to 15 people for a weekend. If your retreat is more than 15, we can coordinate the additional rental of a second portaloo from our provider with 3 weeks advance notice for an additional $150. While rustic, please consider widening the perspective of this setup as an opportunity to be grateful for what we have in our lives, to live close to nature, and to get back to basics and simplicity. Each overnight room also has a "chamber pot" if you prefer not to go out of your room at night if nature calls. It is your responsibility to empty out the chamber pot daily per the instructions listed. The dates of your retreat are not secured until we receive your deposit, equal to half the cost of your retreat rental. The deposit is 100% refundable up to 30 days prior to the retreat. The overnight rooms have mini-split heat pumps for heat, a/c, and dehumidifiers. All participants staying on site will need to sign the Inner Wolf Retreat Space liability waiver. You as a retreat leader and your participants are responsible for personal safety.
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Why should I attend a Sound Healing Retreat at Inner Wolf Retreat Space?Attending a sound healing retreat at Inner Wolf Retreat Space can be a transformative experience for your overall wellness. Our retreats are carefully designed to provide a deeply rejuvenating and restorative environment where you can immerse yourself in the power of sound healing. Our skilled practitioners use a variety of instruments, including crystal singing bowls, gongs, and tuning forks, to create harmonic vibrations that soothe the mind, body, and spirit. Through the combination of sound therapy, meditation, and restorative practices, our retreats offer a unique opportunity to release stress, tension, and energetic blockages, allowing you to experience profound relaxation and inner balance. Whether you are looking to alleviate physical discomfort, reduce anxiety, or simply enhance your overall well-being, attending a sound healing retreat at Inner Wolf Retreat Space can provide a deeply healing and rejuvenating experience. Our commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive atmosphere ensures that each participant feels cared for and empowered on their journey to wellness.
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Can I stay at Inner Wolf Retreat Space overnight or for a personal retreat?Yes! Most people who stay overnight end up not wanting to leave! Let us know if you would like to have a sound healing session as part of your stay. We have 3 room rentals and campsites listed here The toilets provided include one very clean and serviced weekly portaloo and an (also clean!) indoor Nature's Head composting toilet. We have found that this setup supports up to 15 people for a weekend. If your retreat is more than 15, we can coordinate the additional rental of a second portaloo from our provider with 3 weeks advance notice for an additional $150. While rustic, please consider widening the perspective of this setup as an opportunity to be grateful for what we have in our lives, to live close to nature, and to get back to basics and simplicity. Each overnight room also has a "chamber pot" if you prefer not to go out of your room at night if nature calls. It is your responsibility to empty out the chamber pot daily per the instructions listed. The overnight rooms have mini-split heat pumps for heat, a/c, and dehumidifiers.
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Is this appropriate to bring my children to?I often think how my life would be different if I had experienced sound healing at an early age to help me truly know a sense of peace and calm within me, to support in knowing myself more deeply, and to have support for my nervous system with so many pressures of life. I have facilitated sound healing sessions for those as young as 1 month old and up to 90 years old :). That said, you know your child best. For some children, a private session is the better choice, so they are comfortable with just the family's energy in the space, so there are fewer variables if the child needs to move about during the session, or if the session needs to be tailored or abbreviated. If in a public group session, your child will need to be able to lay relatively still and quiet for up to 60 minutes so as not to disturb others attending the session. Sound Healing is a wonderful support for young people. As part of our time together, we have time to share what the session was like for each person and integrate the experience. It is also supportive to talk further with your child afterwards to integrate any feelings or emotions that might arise.
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Can I bring my dog or service dog?I am a big fan of these beings of love who we are blessed to have with us as companions on this journey in life. I shared sound healing with my own dog for many years until he passed. Dogs' senses are so much more acute than ours, and dogs hear so many more sounds in the sound healing. I find that dogs need a little acclimation time to all the new and somewhat "unusual" sounds so that they feel safe and can relax alongside you. With that in mind, in case we need to modify or pause the session, and in case others are sensitive to dogs, I recommend you schedule a private session if you need to bring your dog. Please also bring a clean blanket for the dog to lay on so I keep the space clean for those who are allergic. I also can accommodate if you are traveling and need to bring your dog into the foyer of the Sound Nest to be safe from temperature, preferably in a crate, to relax outside the sound room too. Please let me know ahead of time as well.
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Are the spaces accessible for varied abilities?The Sound Nest is accessible by wheelchair and you can drive down the driveway to shorten the distance to get into the house. Let me know I am happy to accommodate. There is also an elevated mattress for those who prefer not to lay on the floor cushions. The Inner Wolf Retreat is a converted workshop / barn space with uneven terrain and stairs required to enter the sound room. Unfortunately the space is not accessible by wheelchair or for those who cannot climb stairs at this time. Please come to the Sound Nest location instead. The overnight rooms are also not accessible by wheelchair due to their unique conversion from workshop / barn to rustic retreat.
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What if I can't lay on the floor?That's ok! If you schedule at the Sound Nest, there is a most comfortable mattress to lay on, perfect for those out of surgery, who prefer not to lay on the floor, or for those who need greater levels of cushioning. At the Inner Wolf Retreat Space, we have a zero gravity chair or straight back chairs you can lay in instead of the cushions on the floor, as long as you are comfortable climbing stairs to get to the sound room. You are also welcome to sit up on cushions on the floor and listen if you prefer not to lay down.
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Someone I want to bring with me has sensory sensitivities or is autistic. Is sound healing appropriate?All with sensory sensitivities or autism who have attended our sessions love the experience! Sound healing affords everyone space to be who they are and to not have any pressure or expectation to vocalize, and affords time to go within and be with your senses. Most people with sensory sensitivities pick up on so many more levels of sound that this blessing is an even richer superpower to have in a sound healing session. Sound healing calms the nervous system and helps support you in many aspects (mental, physical, emotional, spiritual). The way Dawn plays the instruments creates a consistent sound wave that relaxes the brain into the theta brainwave state. For the very rare few whose ears hear even consistent, relaxing sound as abrasive, I would suggest testing the experience by listening to a high quality sound healing recording with headphones (Dawn has 2 recordings available for purchase and download here ). Please feel free to contact Dawn with any other questions, concerns, or situations.
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Why don't some of the Sound Healing sessions list the location on the website?The Sound Nest and some other events Dawn leads take place in a private residence and the address is sent to you upon scheduling your session. The Sound Nest is in a dedicated sound studio and separate from the rest of the house. But for general timing purposes, the Sound Nest is in Alexander which is about 20 minutes northwest of downtown Asheville. If you need the exact address prior to booking, feel free to just reach out.
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How can I contact you?Drop me a line in the chat and include your email or phone number and I will reach out to you promptly! I don't list my phone number on the site due to spam calls.
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