Sound meditation is an immersive practice built around the experience of listening. At times, sound may be subtle enough to draw you in. At others, the resonance of a gong may seem to move through the entire room—and through you. A session can be quiet, powerful, unexpected, deeply relaxing, or simply interesting to listen to.
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There is nothing to learn beforehand and no meditation experience is needed. Get comfortable, seated or lying down, and listen. Each session unfolds differently, shaped by the instruments, the space, and the people gathered there.
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About Michelle
My path here wasn't particularly direct. For much of my life, I've been interested in attention, awareness, and what brings us fully into an experience. Sound made those ideas physical and gave me a way to share the experience with other people.
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There is nothing someone needs to believe, understand, or be good at. I play. You listen. Sometimes you feel. What happens within that experience belongs to you.
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For me, long before sound meditation, there were, and are, horses.
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Horses have been part of my whole life, and I have spent decades learning from the particular kind of relationship they favor. They have taught me about mindfulness, authenticity, and connection since childhood. They have always given me a reason to become centered, take a deep breath, and acknowledge the difference between what I was thinking and what I was actually feeling.
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Sound meditation has some of those same qualities. Sound continually gives the attention somewhere to go. A tone appears, changes, and disappears. Another emerges. The mind may wander, but there is always something new to hear, something that draws you back into what is happening right now.
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In many ways, the horses led me here.
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Today, I create immersive sound meditations for public gatherings, private experiences, organizations, and communities throughout the Portland area. I create the conditions for something real to happen.
Photo Credit: Robin Halton
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any meditation experience?
Not at all. There is nothing to learn beforehand. Get comfortable and listen. Notice what you hear. When your attention wanders, notice that too, then simply return to listening.
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What should I bring?
If you'll be lying down, bring whatever you need to be genuinely comfortable for the length of the session. A well-padded mat, blankets, pillows, and an eye covering are all good options. Chairs are also welcome if you prefer to sit.
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What should I wear?
Whatever you're comfortable in. Body temperature can change while you're lying still, so layers and an extra blanket are a good idea.
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Can I sit instead of lying down?
Absolutely. Sound meditation can be experienced seated or lying down. Choose whichever allows you to be most comfortable for the session.
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Can I bring a personal item with me?
Of course. If there is something meaningful you'd like to have with you during the meditation, you're welcome to bring it. Keep it with you or place it near your space for the session.
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What if I fall asleep?
It happens. You're not doing anything wrong if you drift off. Simply settle back into listening whenever you become aware of the sound again.
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What if I am sensitive to sound or have a medical concern?
Sound meditation can include sustained tones, vibration, and changes in volume. If you have a condition that may be affected by sound or vibration, or aren't sure whether participating is appropriate for you, please consult your healthcare provider before attending.
​Private Gatherings and Experinces
There is something different about sharing a sound meditation with people you are connected to. Friends, family, colleagues, or a community brought together for a reason, sharing an experience created exclusively for them.
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Sentinel Sound can come to your home, workplace, retreat, private venue, or somewhere a little unexpected. The instruments and flow are shaped around the setting and the gathering, creating time that belongs specifically to the people sharing it
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It might be part of an engagement or anniversary, a family reunion or holiday gathering. It can offer a sincere thank you to employees, volunteers, or clients, create a pause within a corporate retreat or excursion, or bring something entirely different to a birthday, housewarming, or gathering of friends. Sound can also create space for quieter occasions, including memorials and celebrations of life.
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And sometimes, there doesn’t need to be an occasion at all. Bringing people together can be reason enough.
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Have the people but not the place? I can also help identify local venues that may be well suited to your gathering.
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Photo credit: Robin Halton