Harmonic Meditation and Healing Concerts

In September of 2006, the Rev. Craig L. Cowing, pastor of the Blooming Grove United Church of Christ, began offering Harmonic Meditation and Healing Concerts on the second Sunday of every month at 8 PM using Tibetan or Himalayan singing bowls.

These are open to the community and free of charge.

The concerts are in the chapel behind the Blooming Grove United Church of Christ at the corner of Route 94 and Old Dominion Road in Blooming Grove. Map.

The schedule for concerts this year is:

• December 2

The schedule for early 2008 is:

• Jan. 13
• Feb. 10
• Mar. 9
• April 13
• May 11
• June 8
  

Pastor Craig recently spoke about these bowls on WVKR's program "Spiritually Speaking". You can hear a recording of this program here.

Singing bowls have been a part of Himalayan culture for thousands of years. A singing bowl is simply a bell that is shaped like a bowl. They are sometimes called 'standing bells' because they sit on a surface, rather then being suspended like a handbell or church bell. Although they are commonly called "Tibetan" singing bowls, they have been made and used not only in Tibet but also in other parts of Asia.

With several exceptions, the bowls that will be used are antiques ranging in age from approximately sixty to possibly almost five hundred years old.

Singing bowls produce sounds which invoke a deep state of relaxation, naturally helping one entering into meditation. The theory behind the use of singing bowls for healing and centering is that the whole universe is based on vibration--the vibration of molecules. Harmonic sounds can bring us in touch with the very essence of our being. The sounds of singing bowls are soothing and healing and help to reduce stress and help us to focus.

Regardless of one's religious affiliation the mesmerizing sound of these bowls can transport the mind to other worlds. Despite the dearth of solid information about singing bowls the bowls speak for themselves. Music therapists have discovered their value, and some modern musical performers and composers have included them in their work. In the West, singing bowls are used today for meditation, centering, healing, stress reduction, "sound massage", and New Age
music. Come and see what this can do for you!

For more information, please call 845-496-9311 or email the church at bgucc@frontiernet.net.