Have you ever sung a song so deeply until you started crying for reasons you couldn’t explain? We also know the easiest way to get a new born baby to sleep is through singing them a lullaby. It soothes them, yet, they don’t understand the words. Have you ever wondered why? Well, psychoacoustics is the same concept being used on adults except we are not being lured to sleep. We are getting healed. 

Let us discuss this concept further.

What is Psychoacoustics?

Scientifically, we define this as a branch of psychophysics that studies sound perception and audiology. That is; how the pressure waves enter the human ear and the system that gets these acoustical signals converted into hearing. This system involves the brain. Eventually these sound waves emerge as knowledge, sensations or simply perceptions.

In layman’s language, it’s basically trying to understand how people perceive various sounds.

The History of Sound Healing

Long before man could describe music in notes, sound existed. When wind blew past the trees, or the birds woke up chanting, man called that music. Then eventually archeologists and anthropologists left communications on the walls of the Sumerian caves with special accents similar to modern musical notes. These have long been borrowed by different communities such as the French accent grave, and accent aigue. 

Later, ancient Greek physicians used lyres, flutes and zitters to heal sick patients with digestion problems, mental disturbances and insomnia. Aristotle also wrote his book “De Anima” as early as 323 BCE, arguing that flute music could purify the soul. 

By end 19^th century, Diogel of Paris Salpetriere Hospital published research that proved music had positive effects on pulse rate, cardiac output, blood pressure and respiratory rate. And that’s when researchers went in full force. 

On the other hand, religious believers and shamans also had their own practices involving the use of sound. We evolved to breath-work, meditation, chanting, and toning, all as traditional approaches to invoke the power of sound. Several ancient influencers such as the Egyptian Hermes, and the Hindu cow goddess Vac, all put emphasis on music and the sound of the human voice. We also saw the rise of the Tibetian singing bowls, fork tuning and several other community practices all aimed at tapping into the healing forces of sound. How far have we progressed?

Application of Psychoacoustics Today 

The medicine of the future is very near today. We are already experiencing several practical non-invasive technologies, and this includes sound therapy. 

See, when you experience sound vibrations, it’s so powerful that it penetrates deep into your DNA. Now these sounds have select pieces of orderliness that merge together with disorderliness in the recipient to create the perfect harmony as they resonate. Eventually, this resonance causes change that leads to a reset. The reset is simply an organization of the DNA, or your brain, or your body as a whole, since some form of music is a pure source of order. 

Some other form of music, however, could cause more harm. Like the vibrations from an opera singer that are too high pitched they cause the glass windows to shatter. But this shouldn’t worry you because the human body cells are more flexible and they actually enjoy these sound vibrations. Moreover, human bones and the human body are excellent conductors of sound.  

I know you are wondering what causes this disorderliness. Well, it starts from our lifestyle; what we eat and drink to where we live. We are born with pure order but along the way, we lose it. We don’t eat well, we barely sleep, and we don’t have time to exercise and so on. Now the introduction of Psychoacoustics re-trains our bodies to reclaim the pure order we were born with. 

The experts apply specific sounds for specific disorderliness and general sounds for general symptoms. These sound technologies simply aim at introducing vibrations externally to remind our DNA what pure order looks like. With repetitive therapy, the body will eventually work towards reclaiming the orderly you.  

Case Study – The Lithotripter

Medics are now using sound waves to break kidney stones. It’s a simple and straight forward approach where you are admitted in the morning and by evening you are discharged. The Lithotripter produces a specific sound frequency for an hour or two (depending on the condition of the patient), which breaks down the kidney stones. These now pulverized stones are then release normally via urine. 

This process is so gentle that we don’t require any anesthesia. And most people, only require one session. Here we see that through the use of sound resonance we can bring back the human body into harmony and avoid the need for surgery or even drugs. 

Other Benefits of Psychoacoustics

In addition to restoring specific conditions, generally, patients of Psychoacoustics will benefit from the following:

• Reduced pain and inflammation
• Shrinking ovarian cysts
• Disappearing kidney stones
• Improved joint mobility
• Better sleep patterns
• Reduced headaches – From chronic to mild
• Better concentration and memory
• Deep relaxation
• And a positive attitude towards life 

It’s also important to mention that sound doesn’t only work through vibrations that produce resonance. But rather the heightened level of consciousness we experience during sound therapy. Having to focus your mind and thoughts on a particular repetitive sound helps us transcend to the higher beings we’re meant to be. This way, we can achieve greater focus and clarity in life and therefore induce our body cells to the state where healing starts; just like we do with meditation and Yoga.   

In addition, you must have realized that each one of us has a particular genre of music they like; one that puts them into a deep state of relaxation. Still, this works on the same principles as above. Some rhythms will have more power over you depending on your current state in life. 

Conclusion

Everything in the universe is just vibration. We are also a body of sound. As we wait for science to progress, we can harness the power of the many vibration tools available to man: from those used in ancient traditions (singing bowls), to the more modern sources of sound. Even if you don’t do it for health purposes, engage music and intentional sounds to relax and get yourself into a deep state of meditation.

Are you on a spiritual path to self-realization? If so, what meditation techniques do you practice? In this guide, we will introduce you to Kriya Yoga, a sacred technique that requires both leading an ethical life and practicing yoga and meditation. That way, you can improve your focus and concentration and live a calm and joyous life. So, what does Kriya Yoga entail? Let’s start with the definition.

What is Kriya Yoga?

Kriya Yoga is a yogic practice that focuses on the spiritual benefits rather than the physical benefits of yoga. Hence, it is a spiritual practice that aims at developing your spirit into leading a more conscious and fulfilling life. That is, you aim at enhancing your current life in such a way that your physical, emotional, and psychological survival is no more a concern to you. 

Moreover, unlike hatha yoga that requires hard work and physical exercise, Kriya Yoga relies on growth and expression. 

The Origin and History of Kriya Yoga

“Kri” refers to action, and “ya” means indwelling soul. Hence, the term Kriya stands for becoming aware of the power of the inhaled soul. It is about gaining self-realization while also appreciating the mechanics of human life.

The practice of Kriya Yoga dates back to ancient times when advanced Himalayan yogis practiced it in meditation caves. Still, its first mention in modern times is in 1861 when Mahavatar Babaji, the yoga master, passed the practice to Lahiri Mahasaya. More so, it is the spiritual master Paramahansa Yogananda who later brings Kriya Yoga practice to the west, sparking a spiritual revolution. Kriya Yoga continues to impact the lives of millions of people seeking spiritual enlightenment. 

The Philosophy and Principles of Kriya Yoga

The practice of Kriya Yoga is split into three key components as follows: –

#1: Meditation

Kriya Yoga advocates for a life of discipline. It requires setting sometime every day to allow your consciousness to clear. Indeed, society bombards our minds with lots of distractive thoughts. It could be from social media, local politics, or family demands. Whatever the source of the cloudiness, Kriya yoga requires us to practice breathing awareness meditation every day to refine our nervous system. 

It also requires that we change the functioning and structure of our brains for clarity of thought. In turn, meditation gradually changes the energy system within our body (Kundalini) and makes us attune to higher consciousness and vibrations. Only then can we become aware of our true selves.

#2: Self-Inquiry/Self-Study

The second stage in Kriya Yoga is Vichara or self-inquiry. Here, we examine our current lifestyles against the true self that we strive to become. It is a journey of introspection and discernment, letting go of false perceptions of self and people’s biased opinions. In turn, we ask ourselves questions such as: –

• Who am I?
• What is my true purpose in life?
• What are my values?
• How do I define my energy level? What affects it?
• Can I express the boundary between self and the world?
• What comes to mind when I inhale and exhale during meditation?
• Which yoga pause feels most expansive?
• What inspires me, brings me joy, or matters to me the most right now?
• How do I feel when I nourish my body with healthy food?
• What grounds me?
• What is my definition of success beyond money?
• From what do I want to detach?
• How do I express my creativity?
• Where is my favorite spot for practicing yoga? Why is this spot special to me?
• What does surrender mean to me?
• How do I feel when I clean out or de-clutter my workspace?

Self-study makes us contemplate on ourselves. We inquire about our perception of reality versus the true reality. That way, we seek to understand our sole purpose in the world. 

#3: Surrendered Devotion, Isvarapranidhana

Finally, Kriya Yoga is about ethical living, a life of devotion to seeking spiritual enlightenment. The practice helps us make sense of that unease we have when things don’t turn out the way we want. You know that feeling of groundlessness that goes against our societal norms. 

Our communities require us to hold on to a career, family, or leadership to feel in control. Yet, in Kriya Yoga, we let go of our desire for dominion and surrender all effort.

Benefits of Practicing Kriya Yoga as Part of Your Spiritual Journey

#1: Attaining a Spiritual Awakening

The ultimate goal of Kriya Yoga is experiencing a spiritual awakening. This awakening takes place by doing four fundamental actions: –

• Daily Spiritual Meditation – Kriya Yoga relies on the techniques in Raja Yoga to activate higher consciousness. It is a highly individual experience where the participant can hear voices, see visions, lose or absorb a sense of separateness and have a sense of awe or transcendence.
• Spiritual Contemplation – Here, we observe our thoughts without being judgmental. The practice helps us discover that our feelings reflect how our minds interpret those beliefs. Likewise, we notice that negative emotions arise from our interpretation or judging of thoughts with negativity. 
• Spiritual Reflection – Spiritual reflection refers to studying and reflecting on the Vedic scriptures. Here, we aim to unlock the secrets of leading a peaceful and prosperous lifestyle. Hence, we want to live our lives with sincerity, knowledge, and compassion.
• Spiritual Exploration – Finally, Kriya Yoga allows us to explore different spiritual practices to discover what works for each one of us. 

#2: Physical Benefits

Apart from a spiritual awakening, anyone practicing Kriya Yoga shall experience the following benefits: –

• Improves our moods and overall well being
• Assists in dealing with depression 
• Improves our tolerance to pain
• Helps in managing stress and anxiety
• Lowers high blood pressure and hypertension levels
• Soothes, stimulates, and clarifies the mind and soul
• It helps us regain our self-confidence
• Improves our concentration and memory power

Conclusion

Kriya Yoga believes that when we enhance our roots, we will see the fruits in the form of a spiritual awakening. In turn, this spiritual practice emphasizes coming to an ideal state that determines the quality of our lives. It is about growing beyond our needs and concerns and becoming a karma yogi.

When someone you love and trust betrays you, it can make you doubt your sanity. Betrayal can be so traumatic you may even show early signs of PTSD. Think of the times a spouse discovers that their partner is cheating on them or into porn addiction. Or when a parent realizes a child is an alcoholic or drug addict. Such discoveries make you go through shock, denial, and other long-term emotional scars that strain the relationship. So, what is betrayal trauma? And, how can you manage and heal from it? Let’s have a detailed look.

Understanding Betrayal Trauma

Betrayal trauma occurs when people or systems we trust or rely on for survival violate that trust and emotional wellbeing. Ideally, we feel the urge to end a relationship with anyone who betrays us. Still, if you are in an attachment relationship where you rely on the betrayer to meet specific needs, walking away is not feasible.

It is this attachment to someone or an institution that you know is betraying you, that triggers deep emotional wounds. Typical examples of betrayal trauma include child neglect and abuse, sexual abuse, and infidelity between spouses.

6 Signs You Are Undergoing Betrayal Trauma

Betrayal trauma makes us question ourselves and our partners’ motives. It also triggers mood swings, irritability, memory loss, dissociation, isolation, lack of intimacy, and engaging in activities that distract us. Below are some additional tell-tale physiological, emotional, and mental signs of betrayal trauma: –

#1: Feeling Unsafe

When you identify the relationship with your spouse, friend, or workmates as a lie, the deception violates your trust. Moreover, you begin to question your judgment about other relationships you may have at the moment.

Emotional insecurity makes us: –

• Struggle to open up on hard topics
• Get defensive when criticized
• Snoop around for clues or anything suspicious
• Agreeing to everything
• Blaming a partner for everything
• Faking happy moments

#2: Gaslighting Partners

Now, partners living a double life will do all they can to keep their other relationships a secret. At times, they may gaslight their spouses to make them question their perception of reality. For example, they claim you are overreacting when you ask about the numerous withdrawals from the family bank account. Likewise, they may blame you for triggering their short tempers, saying you changed after having kids.

#3: Self-Blame

Now, betrayal trauma makes us look inwards for answers. In hindsight, we end up blaming ourselves for being too busy and overlooking the red flags. You know, your partner’s sudden controlling behavior, deceit, gaslighting, verbal or physical abuse, and concerns by your friends or family members.

But since you love and trust your partner, wishful thinking and infatuation make you overlook all these tell-tale signs that something is amiss. Consequently, we blame ourselves, saying if only we were more attractive, loving, or had more money, the betrayal wouldn’t have happened.

#4: Overwhelming Secondary Guilt or Shame

If you hold a reputable leadership position in your community, church, school, or place of work, betrayal comes with overwhelming shame. Letting those around you know that you’re going through a divorce, or your child is a drug addict, or your parent is facing theft charges ruins the picture-perfect reputation you have. In addition, your feel ashamed for crying or not being strong enough for your kids during this challenging phase.

#5: Physical Distress

Typical physical signs of betrayal trauma include: –

• Sudden panic attacks
• Stomach distress
• Sleep problems
• Anxiety & depression
• Easily prone to panic attacks by external triggers
• Nightmares
• Poor hygiene
• Tiredness

Some physiological effects of betrayal trauma like tiredness and stomach upsets may resolve after a few weeks. Others like anxiety and depression can escalate into mental health complications unless addressed early.  

#6: Self-Destructive Impulses

When undergoing betrayal trauma, you become vulnerable to negative impulses like: –

• Having suicidal thoughts or attempts
• Alcohol and drug misuse
• Excessive smoking
• Chronic self-injury like hair pulling, self-cutting, & nail-biting
• Compulsive gambling, gaming, or shopping
• Binge eating

Most victims know they are self-destructive. However, the urge to harm themselves is beyond their control.

Managing Betrayal Trauma

#1: Speak Up

Join community groups or online support forums and share your painful experiences with others. Doing so helps you know that you are not alone. Plus, you access valuable resources to help you cope with the trauma.

#2: Acknowledge Your Emotions

Start by forgiving yourself for being vulnerable to the abuser. Next, practice mindful meditation to help you release your negative emotions and begin your healing process. Journalizing how you feel each day will help you pinpoint the triggers in your self-harm behaviors or what you need to focus on in your healing journey.

#3: Practice Self-Love

Is your lifestyle self-destructive? Here are some self-love practices you can start right away: –

• Practice clean eating
• Quit smoking
• Join your local gym
• Go for a massage or forest bath
• Take up a new hobby

Self-love helps us rediscover ourselves, boosting our self-esteem.

#4: Set Boundaries

Setting healthy boundaries after your spouse, friend, or colleague hurts you helps to achieve a sense of safety when around them. It is a necessary coping mechanism when you have no way of ending the relationship. Hence, you can: –

• Review your expectations from the relationship
• State what you can and cannot tolerate in the relationship
• Discuss what you consider acceptable financial boundaries
• Redefine how much friends and extended family can interfere with the relationship
• Define what you consider as private

#5: Seek Professional Help

Betrayal trauma presents itself in a multilayer form that is best dealt with by an experienced professional. Indeed, an inexperienced family member may re-traumatize you by saying such things as “Did you stop getting intimate after having kids?” Also, talk to an experienced family therapist or counselor about how the trauma affects your quality of life.

Conclusion

What is betrayal trauma to you? Well, if you experience an attachment injury when a friend, spouse, or colleague breaks the mutual trust you have, you may develop deep wounds that take time to heal. If your gut feelings tell your partner or parent is gaslighting you, they could be doing so to distract you from their deception. Likewise, if you feel unsafe, struggle with guilt, self-blame, or self-harm behaviors, seek professional help to heal from the trauma. Also, share your experience, rediscover yourself, and set firm boundaries to give you some peace of mind in this challenging time.