More recent ​scientific studies into the nature of the gong sound have identified the vast array of frequencies within the sound itself and the mode in which the sound travels following patterns found in sacred geometry to be the reason for the particular effects that the sound creates for the listener. It seems that the conscious mind is unable to process such a vast soundscape and so the more conscious part of the mind begins to "switch off" entering into the borderline between awake and asleep and often profound states of calm and relaxation. The sound of the gong, sometimes referred to as the sound of the Universe appears to bypass the conscious mind when played for a consistent period of time. Sound travels through matter and water is a particularly good conductor for sound. As the consistency of the human form is generally around 70% water it is not difficult to imagine how this particular sound appears to travel through our whole bodies with such profound effects. One of the pioneers in the use of gongs for stress reduction, healing and personal transformation, Don Conreaux describes the sound of the gong as follows:

" The gong is a supportive tool for manifestation of our harmonious, physical, mental and emotional being. The OM tone of the gong creates total silence within. The gong's force of resonance and its effectiveness is complete submersion and saturation of a person in layer upon layer of tone cell multiplication. The universal gong sound is based upon the musical principle that all tones of equal amplitude keep resonating, adding to themselves and reproducing. This is a phenomenon unique to gongs."

Most instruments have an initial impact followed by a decline. This is called the sound envelope. The sound envelope of the gong differs in that it is more unpredictable. After the first strike and decay, the gong sound returns of its own accord without any additional attack  and builds to a second and even higher peak. Yogi Bhajan referred to this as the gong's "resound". As the returning waves of sound build upon one another, the sound of the gong becomes so complex, that the mind has no way to categorize it.

 The particular pattern of layering of the gong sound seems to be a key component in relation to the powerful deep resonance of the sound and the effect that the sounds seem to elicit in the listener.

Transmission of the gong sound is thought to travel from the outer ear through the body via the vagus nerve- impacting the brain waves, respiratory rate and heart rate. In relation to sound transmission. Renowned gong master, teacher and author   Don Conreaux ,  suggests " It may alter cellular functions through energetic effects; it may entrain biological systems to function more homeostatically; it may calm the mind and therefore the body; or it may have emotional effects, which influence neurotransmitters and neuropeptides ,which in turn help to regulate the immune system- the healer within."  

 In sound healing, gongs do indeed appear to be very effective in identifying and clearing energetic blocks which may be physical, mental, emotional or spiritual in nature.

 I use various instruments in my practise and generally incorporate use of the 30, 32" and smaller hand gongs in my collection unless requested otherwise with some great results in terms of triggering profound relaxation, insights, and release. The sound of the gong sometimes triggers emotional responses which can include joy as the sound connects individuals to core feelings and emotions most  in need of release. In the context of one to one sessions gong playing can be adjusted according to the preferences and desired intention of the client. Gentle gong playing can be used to facilitate parasympathetic or (relaxation) triggering responses, or in a more impactful releasing style and method of playing for example. The use of the style of playing therefore can be adjusted according to the specific intentions and preferences of clients during one to one sessions.