The dangers & effects of singing bowls
A quick search on Google will show you that there's quite a bit of discussion about the potential "dangers" of singing bowls doing the rounds online. In fact, when the team here at Mindful Store was putting this article together, we ran across a few particularly outlandish claims. So in this article we'll take a look at some of the myths out there about singing bowl side effects and hopefully lay to rest any concerns you might have around using them.
Although there have definitely been cases of singing bowls hurting ears - well, this is usually due to the person using it not being a very skilled player!
Taking a closer look at singing bowl side effects
First things first - we've spoken previously about how some people like to make outsize claims about the health benefits of singing bowls. It's no different when it comes to the "dangers".
Given the exoticism that can surround singing bowls, cynical people sometimes use fear as a marketing pitch and claim that there are "powerful energies" and "dangers" associated with their use - while not believing a word of it themselves.
Crystals are another example where this happens, though you could find other examples pretty easily. Yes, crystals do have dangerous powers - if you drop them on your toe.
However, it's important to note that we are not medical experts, and if you do have concerns about any of these usages, you should definitely speak to your doctor about them. We never want you to do something you feel uncomfortable with or that you feel is dangerous. We just want you to be aware that not everything you read on the internet is true, and health claims need to be carefully evaluated.
Singing bowls and sound healing
We've talked elsewhere about sound healing benefits in more detail. But suffice to say in this context that there are some very...esoteric...claims we ran across about the "safe use" of singing bowls in sound therapy. A number of sites suggest that they shouldn't be used in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, while you have an open wound if you have a fever or have recently suffered whiplash.
The basis for any of these is pretty thin, though it's possible some originated from Buddhist ideas about ritual purity. It's tough to say for certain, though.
The main sensible one seemed to be not placing a sound bowl on an area where you've just had surgery. That's nothing to do with occult powers - it's because singing bowls can be dirty and you don't want an infection!
(This is one more reason why authenticity and sourcing matters - see our guide on how to avoid fake singing bowls for what to look for.)
(Incidentally, make sure that you check out our blog on cleaning and maintaining singing bowls.)
Singing bowls and epilepsy
One of the most common claims doing the rounds about singing bowls and sound healing side effects is that they can trigger epilepsy. This is a tricky one - although musicogenic seizures are known to be caused by sound, they're exceedingly rare. Our research also didn't turn up any cases of singing bowls being involved in causing one of these seizures.
With that said, speak to your doctor if you do have concerns before purchasing a singing bowl for yourself.
Singing bowls and artificial joints
One of the most common "singing bowl side effects" that we ran across while researching this piece was the idea that singing bowls could damage artificial joints or pacemakers. Although it's true that sound can and has been used as a weapon of destruction - well, the average singing bowl just isn't operating at the right frequency or volume to be able to blow up your artificial knee.
Speak to your doctor if you have concerns of course, but this one seems pretty dubious.
Singing bowls and excess volume
Of all the concerns doing the rounds, this one arguably has the most basis to it. It's a similar concern to some sound bath negative effects. The links between high volume and hearing loss are well-known. So if you do find that your singing bowls are hurting your ears, you might need to consider a few things:
- Play for shorter sessions
- Play more softly to reduce the volume
- Wear earplugs while playing
So, are singing bowls actually safe?
Yes, singing bowls are safe for the vast majority of people when used sensibly. Most online "dangers" are either marketing fear-mongering or risks specific to counterfeit, low-quality bowls. Here's a quick summary of what's actually worth knowing:
| Concern | Reality |
|---|---|
| Excessive volume | Legitimate - play softly, take breaks, use earplugs if needed |
| Lead or unsafe metals | A risk with cheap mass-produced bowls; not an issue with verified traditional bowls |
| Pregnancy | No evidence of harm; consult your doctor if concerned |
| Epilepsy | Theoretically possible (musicogenic seizures are rare); consult your doctor |
| Pets | Start at low volume and watch for signs of stress |
| Artificial joints/pacemakers | No evidence of any risk |
| Open wounds | Don't rest the bowl on the wound (infection, not "energy") |
If you have any medical condition, the sensible advice is the same as with any new wellness practice: check with your doctor first.
Shop authentic singing bowls with confidence
Most singing bowl "dangers" you'll find online stem from counterfeit products, not the bowls themselves. At Mindful Store, we work directly with workshops in the Nepalese Himalayas, where every bowl is hand-forged by traditional artisans using safe metal alloys. Our founders Mike and Kat personally select each bowl for quality, authenticity, and sound.
Browse our singing bowls collectionFrequently asked questions
Do sound baths have negative effects?
Sound baths are generally safe and relaxing, but they might not be suitable for everyone. If you're pregnant or have sound sensitivities, tinnitus, epilepsy, or other medical conditions, certain sounds could cause discomfort or trigger symptoms. While they're usually harmless, it's a good idea to consult your doctor if you have any concerns before trying them.
Can singing bowls be used in Christianity?
Singing bowls don't have a specific religious affiliation, so they can be compatible with Christianity, depending on personal beliefs. Sound bowls, often seen as foreign to Christianity, are essentially just a type of bell like those long used in Christian churches to call people to worship and open themselves to the divine. The Bible itself mentions bells, such as in Exodus 28:33-35, where gold bells on priestly robes signified sacred moments. While the sound of a singing bowl (a "standing bell") may differ, the principle is similar. The Bible also encourages meditation - verses like Proverbs 15:28 and 16:23 highlight the value of meditation for gaining wisdom and understanding. So, if singing bowls help create a peaceful space for prayer or reflection, they can be compatible with Christian practice. Ultimately, it's about how you choose to use them - as a tool for mindfulness and connection with God, rather than attaching them to a specific tradition.
Can singing bowls hurt my pets' ears?
Sound bowls can potentially be harmful to pets' ears, especially since dogs and cats have sensitive hearing. It's important to start with low volumes and gradually introduce the sounds, watching for signs of discomfort or anxiety. Some dogs may enjoy the calming effects of sound baths, but others might find certain sounds distressing. Each pet is unique, so it's best to monitor their reactions and provide a safe, comfortable environment.
Can singing bowls cause headaches?
Singing bowls don't typically cause headaches when played at moderate volume, but excessive volume or extended exposure can trigger tension headaches in sensitive individuals. If you experience headaches during use, try playing more softly, taking breaks, or moving further from the bowl. People prone to migraines should introduce singing bowls gradually.
Are singing bowls safe during pregnancy?
There's no medical evidence that singing bowls are unsafe during pregnancy, but many sources recommend caution in the first trimester out of an abundance of care. Most concerns are precautionary rather than evidence-based. If you're pregnant and want to use singing bowls for meditation or relaxation, consult your doctor. Most will approve gentle, moderate use.
Can singing bowls trigger anxiety?
Singing bowls are widely used for anxiety relief and relaxation, but in rare cases people with sound sensitivity (hyperacusis) or PTSD related to specific tones may find them triggering. If you have sound sensitivities, start with smaller bowls played softly, and stop if you notice increased distress rather than calm.
Should children use singing bowls?
Singing bowls are generally safe for children when supervised, and many parents use them for calming routines. Younger children have more sensitive hearing, so keep volume low and sessions short. Avoid letting very young children handle bowls unsupervised, both for sound safety and for the bowl's wellbeing.
Are old or vintage singing bowls dangerous?
Some antique singing bowls may contain higher levels of lead in their alloy than modern bowls, so handling and use should be reasonable. Don't lick or eat from antique bowls (unlikely but worth saying), wash hands after extended handling, and source from reputable dealers who can verify provenance. Modern bowls from established Himalayan workshops use lead-safe formulations.
