Sharpening My Focus With Gong Meditation

It was a dark, cold evening when I stepped into the glow of my local village hall to try out gong meditation.    

I'd tried meditation in the past, but I was rubbish. Switching off was difficult, and random thoughts always popped into my head. But this year I was going to do it. I was going to be focused! 2022 was going to be my year for trying new things, and gong meditation was high on the list.    

Gong mediation originates in South-East Asia

Some reports date it back to 4000BC. A type of sound therapy, it's said that the vibrations interrupt brainwaves, creating deep relaxation and a good night's sleep. The ripple of the pulses is meant to break emotional blockages and take away stress. I needed some of that.  

Armed with my mat, warm blanket and pillow, I was welcomed by Karen: gong practitioner, master NLP and wellbeing coach, who directed me to a spot.    

I made myself comfy, closed my eyes and waited for the hour-long class to begin.     

Karen started to hit the gongs gently, building up the sound as the class progressed. I wasn't sure what sound I expected to hear, but it was varied. Quiet, loud, rippling, vibrating. Kind of like ambient electronic music.     

It’s more than just relaxation

What did I want to get out of the class? Like many people, relaxation was a biggie, but for me, it was more about honing my sharpness and focus - and I'd read that gong meditation could help.   

As the class progressed, I became more relaxed and visualised my ideal life. A hugely successful business was one aim, so I imagined the steps I'd have to take to make it happen.   

How did I feel at the end of the class?   

I felt VERY relaxed and a little sleepy. And motivated – which is what I wanted. Will I return? Definitely. I'm already eyeing up the two-hour workshop in March.   

*If you want to try gong meditation in Cheshire, visit Wellbeing Wave's website. They host classes in Tarporley, Frodsham, Warrington, Chester and Wilmslow.  

Written by Laura Beckett, a freelance copywriter and website copywriter, based in Cheshire, UK.