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You do not need a blank mind to practise mindfulness. Christine explains how listening to a tone, drifting off and returning can be the whole exercise, in Lane Cove.

Mindfulness without the pressure

A common worry about mindfulness is that you have to switch your thoughts off completely. Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, often reassures people that this is not the aim. In a sound-based practice, you might listen to a tone, notice that your mind has drifted to dinner plans and then gently bring your attention back to the sound. That loop of noticing and returning is the practice itself.

Nobody gets it perfect, and that is fine. Each time you come back to the sound is a small moment of attention.

No need to decode every sensation

Some people describe tingling, warmth or emotion during sound practice in terms of energy moving. You are free to simply notice what you feel without assigning it a special meaning. A sound session is offered as a relaxation and wellbeing experience, and it works perfectly well on those terms.

Preferences differ widely. Some find sound soothing, while others feel more at ease in silence or with a different practice altogether. Christine is happy to talk through what suits you, and the exercise always remains optional.

When worries persist

Sound can be a pleasant way to pause, but it is not a replacement for proper support. If ongoing worry, persistently low mood or long-running sleep difficulties are part of your life, mention them so they can be considered in a wider conversation about your care, which may include your GP.

Shaping a session you can relax into

Many details can be adjusted to make the experience comfortable. The volume can be lowered, the instruments can be placed further away and you can choose a chair or a mat. You can stop whenever you like. There is no emotional response you should be having, and no requirement to stay motionless. Tell Christine what feels manageable, and keep in mind that an enjoyable rest is a different thing from medical treatment.

Sound sessions in Lane Cove

Christine runs sound-based mindfulness sessions at the Lane Cove clinic. A first visit can be as simple as trying a few minutes of listening and talking afterwards about what felt right.