Just a short piecetoday, to give a heads-up to people new to the gong world, to those who are justbecoming aware of gongs and Sound Healing after their first gong bath or gongexperience, and who might possibly need a little guidance on where to go andwhat to do..
When you discoverthe world of gongs for the first time, and decide you want to buy a gong andbecome a gong player, it can be a little daunting at first. Nowadays there areso many gongs to choose from, and then you need to learn how to play the gongin the right way, so that the healing sounds that emanate from a well-playedgong are able to do their work well in your hands. How to go about it...
There are a fewbooks on the market now, including my own two, which will help you find theright gong, and learn some basic techniques for playing. However, there is nosubstitute for good training. Attending a Gong Workshop with a reputable,experienced gong player and teacher will give you the best possible start. Lookfor someone whom other people recommend, or do a search on the Internet to finda suitable Workshop or Course that feels right for you.
If the training isup to scratch, you will receive tuition on how to play the gong, somebackground information on the history of the gong, how they are made, thedifferent types available, the effect of the gong on the listener, and where tobuy gongs and everything else you need to get started. Most importantly, weneed to adopt the right attitude - approaching the gong without ego, andplaying it intuitively, with no sudden bursts of loud volume - rather allowingthe layers of sound to rise and fall in waves, so that it is simultaneouslyboth powerful and relaxing. It takes time and practice to develop these skills.
When you have boughtyour gong, start playing it regularly – you can make it into a daily practise,and do your “gong meditation” each morning. As you get into it, your playingwill start to feel more natural, and you will gain confidence in the gong, andyour own abilities. Above all, enjoy it! Wishing you well with your gongjourney!
Sheila Whittaker 1.1.18
www.healing-sound.co.uk
