Serenity and harmony through sound

Everyday stress and tension are part of our modern lifestyle and can affect almost everyone at some time in their life. During times of increased mental demands, the brain sends signals to various body systems to leap into action. When the psychological and physical factors of tension are felt, the body increases its release of certain stress hormones through the adrenal glands.

A prolonged increase in these hormones is not ideal and can result in compromised vitality and may influence emotional, cognitive and physical health. In order to ensure that stress does not build up and have an adverse effect on your health, it is important to find stress management techniques that will work for you. 

The natural way

Nature's soothing sounds have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years to support the healthy functioning of the brain and nervous system, helping to encourage healthy stress management and inner peace.

In more recent times, research has confirmed this traditional wisdom. There are now many published clinical studies demonstrating the ability of soothing deep relaxation music therapy to effectively reduce stress and maintain a sense of peace and inner calm. Natures soothing sounds in the form of soothing music can also aid in recovery from a number of ailments.

(Mockel M, Stork T, Vollert J, et al. Stress reduction through listening to music: effects on stress hormones, hemodynamics and mental state in patients with arterial hypertension and in healthy persons. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 1995; 120: 745-52).

Studies also overwhelmingly support the use of progressive relaxation exercises, guided imagery, meditation and self hypnosis techniques to alleviating anxiety and depression - resulting in a greater sense of self esteem, emotional and physical well-being. Following these practices on a regular basis has also been shown to support cardiovascular as well as systemic health.

What is The Calm Within CD?

'Close your eyes, take a deep, deep breath... and relax'

So begins The Calm Within CD, composed and recorded by our Clinical Psychologist. Based on actual therapeutic sessions used in her private practice, The Calm Within combines peaceful soothing music with progressive relaxation exercises, guided imagery and positive self scripting to provide you with an hour of therapeutic bliss whenever you need it.

This combination of therapeutic techniques and soothing deep relaxation music has been especially designed to induce a state of deep relaxation, similar to what would be achieved in therapy, effectively relieving tension and supporting the body's natural ability to heal.

The CD is approximately one hour in length and is created to help provide all the benefits of an hour of relaxation therapy with a trained counselor - in the comfort of your own home!  

There are numerous studies demonstrating the benefits of guided imagery in promoting recovery, health and relaxation:

• Antall GF, Kresevic D. “The use of guided imagery to manage pain in an elderly orthopedic population.” Orthop.Nurs. 2004;23(5):335-340.
• Groer M, Ohnesorge C. “Menstrual-cycle lengthening and reduction in premenstrual distress through guided imagery.” J Holist.Nurs. 1993;11(3):286-294.
• Kshettry VR, Carole LF, Henly SJ, et al. “Complementary alternative medical therapies for heart surgery patients: feasibility, safety, and impact.” Ann Thorac Surg. 2006 Jan;81(1):201-5.
• Kwekkeboom KL, Kneip J, Pearson L. “A pilot study to predict success with guided imagery for cancer pain.” Pain Manag.Nurs. 2003;4(3):112-123.
• Mannix LK, Chandurkar RS, Rybicki LA, et al. “Effect of guided imagery on quality of life for patients with chronic tension-type headache.” Headache 1999;39(5):326-334.
• Troesch LM, Rodehaver CB, Delaney EA, et al. “The influence of guided imagery on chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting.” Oncol Nurs.Forum 1993;20(8):1179-1185.
• Wynd CA. “Guided health imagery for smoking cessation and long-term abstinence.” J Nurs Scholarsh. 2005;37(3):245-50.