Singing Bowl FAQ

What Are Singing Bowls? A singing bowl is a musical bowl designed to produce a particular tone or "song" when played. What Are Singing Bowls Made From? According to tradition they were made from a special seven metal alloy with each metal representing one of the seven classical "planets". Most of the singing bowls you can buy today are made from a simple, copper based alloy. Crystal bowls are a popular modern innovation made from quartz. How Do I Play A Singing Bowl? Singing bowls are played by running a special "mallet" around the outside, causing them to resonate and emit their unique sound. Some metal bowls are designed so that they can also be tapped gently on the outside like a bell. Where Do Singing Bowls Come From? Most people associate singing bowls with Tibet, however their exact origin is uncertain. It would probably be more accurate to describe them as a tradition of the Himalayan region rather than Tibetan. Today of course you can buy metal and crystal bowls produced around the world. What Are Singing Bowls Used For? A singing bowl is a musical instrument and many people play them simply because they like the sound. Traditionally they were used by monks as an aid to meditation and many people use them for meditation and relaxation today. Some people also believe that they can assist in healing. Do I Need A Cushion? Singing bowl cushions are a popular accessory. They're not strictly necessary but do serve several purposes: they help to support and protect your bowl, they can enhance the meditative atmosphere and of course they look good.