Frequently Asked Questions | Resonant Heart MKE

Who is Peter Hess?

Peter Hess is a German engineer who has extensively studied, researched, and explored the use of and effects of sound and vibration on the human body. His sound massage method began in 1984 after his studies and experiences in India and Nepal inspired him to integrate the ancient knowledge of sound as a healing modality into an adapted Western method. He continues to work with villages in these countries to create authentic, intentionally crafted, hand-hammered, high quality metal therapy bowls specific to the sound massage method. Learn more about Peter Hess at Hess Sound

What Sets Peter Hess® Sound Massage Sessions Apart? Are the Sound Massages the Same Each Time?

The Peter Hess® Method connects a modern approach to the healing effects of sound to the ancient use and knowledge of sound healing. It is a studied, intentional, researched, and evolving practice that is performed by a certified Peter Hess® Practitioner. Each session follows an intentional protocol that can be adapted to the needs of each individual client, and uses ethically crafted therapy-grade singing bowls that have been developed specifically for the methods of this practice. The outcome of each sound massage relies heavily on the quality of vibrations and frequencies that are created with these bowls, and each bowl supports and nurtures the healing frequencies of the areas of the body for which they are intended.

The primary mantra of the Peter Hess® Method is 'Less is More'. The aim is not to overwhelm the body with input, but rather to introduce vibration and tone gently to allow the body to acclimate and receive as easily and naturally as possible without overload. A tall order in our fast-paced, information-heavy society! With this mindset, the first three sessions follow an identical protocol (with the exception of adding the hands to the third session). Following this, you will notice a marked difference in the level of relaxation you are able to attain in a shorter amount of time.

After the first three sessions, other intentional elements may be added or exchanged throughout your massage to target specific needs (ex. pain/tension, energetic flow, etc). There are many factors that determine how people will perceive and experience sound, and each session may be different from the next and from person to person. It is an entirely unique process to the individual, and one that can feel incredibly profound.

What Can I Expect During My Sound Massage Session?

During a sound massage, you will remain fully clothed and no direct touching/contact will occur between you and the practitioner. You will be lying comfortably on a massage table for the duration of your sound massage, both on your back and on your stomach while 1-4 Peter Hess® Therapy Bowls will be placed on or near your body. The session is designed for your utmost comfort and adjustments and modifications can be made to ensure you are getting the most from your session.

Sessions include an initial conversation, sound massage, period of silence for integration, and follow-up conversation.

What Do I Wear?

Please wear comfortable clothing and socks to your sound massage and other therapeutic sound sessions. No metal, zippers or buttons on the shirt, if possible as they have the potential to affect tone and resonance. Socks are important as you will have a bowl or tuning fork placed directly on the bottom of your feet.

Are There Any Contraindications?

It is important to let me know of any health concerns you may be dealing with. While most will not be an issue for your massage (and you may receive relief!) there are some that will require a doctor's release.

These may include:

cardiac arrhythmia & other cardiac issues/disorders
pacemaker/defibrillator
pregnancy
epilepsy
deep vein thrombosis
recent surgery
open wounds

Please reach out with any questions.

Is a Sound Massage the Same as a Sound Bath?

While there are definite similarities, there are unique differences. Both are powerful in their own right.

A sound bath is an experience in which one or multiple people can be "bathed" in sound waves. Sound baths use pure sound/tones and tend to stay away from melodies & repetitive tones to assist the attendees in achieving a state of relaxation, meditation and release. Practitioners will typically use a variety of instruments. While instruments can sometimes be placed on the body, they are most often played away from the recipient's direct person.

Resonant Heart does provide group sound offerings that incorporate sound massage, sound bath, and music therapy techniques to provide a unique and holistic sound experience.

A sound massage is an individual experience and only uses specially crafted therapy bowls. Each bowl has been handmade and intentionally designed to vibrate deeply into the body at frequencies that resonate well with targeted areas. While the first 3 sessions keep to the same protocol to assist the recipient with knowing how the resonance affects their own body and to gain familiarity and trust, further individualized care and attention can be given to areas of need (increased body awareness, localized pain, relief from symptoms of illness, relief from stress & anxiety, etc). It has sometimes been likened to acupuncture in the way it can assist the flow of energy through the body. A highly unique, adaptive and individualized approach to overall wellness.

What is the difference between Energetic Alignment sessions and Peter Hess Sound Massage?

In Sound Massage sessions, the primary focus is deep relaxation and all-encompassing vibrotactile integration. While there is time to check in at the beginning and end of each session, there is no real focus on verbal processing. You are given an opportunity to just 'be', allowing the sound and vibrations to work their magic at helping your body release tension and open up energetic pathways. Sound Massage is great for pain relief, letting go, deep relaxation, sensory & nervous system integration, presence of mind & body, and, as reported by many, spiritual connection. Deep, deep integration like no other.

In Energetic Alignment sessions, collaborative discussion will be designated in each session to focus on your own needs and current experience and aligning those with curated intentions that correspond to your chakra system. While the bulk of the session is also spent in deep relaxation and calm, the primary focus is identifying and clearing any areas within your own energetic centers that need a little extra attention - allowing you to increase your own awareness of your energy centers and begin to take control of your balance and relief moving forward.

Why Does Intentional Therapeutic Sound Work?

The world is made up of vibration and energy. Using targeted and specific healing frequencies assist our bodies and minds to resonate at a level that promotes healing within. Because our body is made up of approximately 75% liquid, it is very good at conducting sound. It can then be understood how sound travels through your body to target areas of need that you may (or may not!) be aware exist.

Not only do the subtle power of the targeted vibrations have the potential to move stuck tension and energy, the frequencies, tones, and overtones of the bowls also help to shift our nervous system function out of 'fight or flight' (sympathetic state) to the parasympathetic state where we can return to our natural state of system function; homeostasis, 'rest & digest'. In this balanced state, healing can occur & our systems can work to repair themselves. Immune function is boosted, and serotonin & dopamine are released. On a neurological level, the tones, overtones & vibrations actively change brain wave patterns - shifting us into deeper states of consciousness. This process aids in relaxation and assists with activation in the areas of the brain that are responsible for emotions, memory & autonomic control. Deep system nurturing in a gentle and highly effective way.

How Do I Book a Session?

To schedule a Sound Massage at the Center at 8 Branches in Milwaukee, click here.

To schedule a group session at a different location, please email me directly for more information.

You also always have the option of scheduling with me either via phone at (414) 828-0557 (call or text), email at resonant.heart.mke@gmail.com, or DM via my facebook or instagram pages.

Do You Have Gift Certificates?

Yes! You can choose either an online gift card, or a physical paper gift certificates that I will be happy to give in-person or send through the mail. Reach out with more questions or to purchase.