IMPACT OF HIMALAYAN SINGING BOWLS VIBRATIONS ON CORTISOL REDUCTION IN CELLS AND THE RESTORATION OF HORMONAL BALANCE AMONG CORPORATE EMPLOYEES

ABSTRACT

The article examines the influence of Himalayan (singing) vibrations It is aimed at reducing cortisol levels in cells and restoring hormonal balance among corporate sector employees. Based on the analysis of studies, the psychophysiological mechanisms of chronic stress have been identified, leading to disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and, as a result, to hormone imbalance. As a result of a study of vibroacoustic therapy using Himalayan (singing) In the corporate sector, it was found that 25-30-minute vibration sessions in the range of 50-250 Hz lead to a decrease in intracellular cortisol levels and stress index, as well as to an increase in heart rate variability (RMSSD and HF). Biophysical analysis revealed the activation of mechanosensitive ion channels of cell membranes and the launch of signaling cascades modulating glucocorticoid metabolism, and microscopic examination confirmed an improvement in microcirculation and a decrease in inflammatory markers. The materials presented in the framework of the work will be of interest to specialists in the field of psychophysiology, endocrinology and neuroscience, as well as to corporate health experts seeking to integrate innovative approaches into stress management and optimizing the body's performance under professional pressure.

АННОТАЦИЯ

В статье рассматривается влияние вибраций гималайских (поющих) чаш на снижение уровня кортизола в клетках и восстановление гормонального баланса у сотрудников корпоративного сектора. На основе анализа исследований выявлены психофизиологические механизмы хронического стресса, приводящего к нарушению работы гипоталамо-гипофизарно-надпочечниковой оси и, как следствие, к дисбалансу гормонов. В результате исследования виброакустической терапии с использованием гималайских (поющих) чаш у сотрудников корпоративного сектора установлено, что 25–30-минутные сеансы вибраций в диапазоне 50–250 Гц приводят к снижению внутриклеточного уровня кортизола и стресс-индекса, а также к повышению показателей вариабельности сердечного ритма (RMSSD и HF). Биофизический анализ выявил активацию механосенситивных ионных каналов клеточных мембран и запуск сигнальных каскадов, модулирующих глюкокортикоидный обмен, а микроскопическое исследование подтвердило улучшение микроциркуляции и снижение маркёров воспаления. Представленные в рамках работы материалы будут интересны для специалистов в области психофизиологии, эндокринологии и нейронаук, а также для экспертов корпоративного здоровья, стремящихся интегрировать инновационные подходы в стресс-менеджмент и оптимизацию работы организма в условиях профессионального давления.

Keywords: vibroacoustic therapy, Himalayan singing bowls, cortisol, hormonal balance, corporate stress, mechanotransduction, endocrine regulation.

Ключевые слова: виброакустическая терапия, гималайские чаши, кортизол, гормональный баланс, корпоративный стресс, механотрансдукция, эндокринная регуляция.

Introduction

Chronic stress leads to excessive production of cortisol, which in turn negatively affects metabolic processes, cognitive functions, and overall health [2]. Modern research confirms that the normalization of hormonal balance is a crucial element in preventing metabolic syndrome, memory deterioration, and depressive states [1].

A review of the literature on the impact Himalayan singing bowls’ vibrations on reducing cortisol levels and restoring hormonal balance reveals two main research directions. On one hand, the studies focus on the endocrine and cognitive aspects of stress, examining the mechanisms by which hormones affect the body, cognitive functions, and mental state. For example, Konyukhova N. V. [1] offers practical recommendations for normalizing levels of insulin, leptin, ghrelin, cortisol, and melatonin, thus considering hormonal balance as a comprehensive regulatory system for metabolic and psychophysiological processes. Simultaneously, the works of Minasyan D. S., Reznikova M. A., and Skalozub D. V. [2] analyze the influence of cortisol on cognitive functions, emphasizing the importance of hormonal control for maintaining mental performance, especially under constant stress. Additional studies conducted by Rakhimkulova A. S. and Rozanov V. A. [4], as well as Maksimova A. A. [5] and Bulgakova S. V. with Romanchuk N. P. [6], highlight the impact of cortisol imbalance on mental health, cognitive development, and even aging, indicating the necessity of an integrated approach to studying stress states and their consequences on the body. The study by Romanchuk N. P. et al. [7] further complements this paradigm by revealing the interconnections between neurobiological processes, depressive disorders, and epigenetic changes resulting from chronic stress.

On the other hand, the literature dedicated to innovative wellness methods includes studies focused on the application of alternative approaches in the spa industry and psychotherapy. For instance, Oguy V. O. [3] in his review popularizes his method of vibroacoustic massage using singing bowls, emphasizing the potential of this technique in wellness practice. The work by Rodek N., Máhr T., and Birkner Z. [8] explores innovative strategies for developing spa services in the context of modern demands for wellness, while Cohen M. [9] examines the role of hydrothermal complexes in the pandemic era, demonstrating the relevance of comprehensive wellness programs.

Sources [10; 11], with data provided on the websites expertbeacon and selectsoftwarereviews, were used in this study to present statistical information regarding stress levels among employees.

The next group of publications includes sources [12–14], which focus on experimental studies investigating the effects of Himalayan singing bowls on stress levels among participants. Trivedi G. Y. and Saboo B. A. [12] conducted a comparative study involving a 20-minute sound session using seven Himalayan bowls and a resting condition of equal duration with 33 volunteers. They measured heart rate variability (HRV) and Baevsky’s stress index using the Emwave Pro device and Kubios HRV Premium software.

Goldsby T. L. et al. [13], in 2017, examined 62 participants (mean age 49.7 years) to assess changes in tension, anger, fatigue, and depressive mood before and after a Tibetan bowl sound meditation session. Using standardized psychological scales, the authors observed a reduction in negative affective states and an increase in spiritual well-being, with the most pronounced effects reported among participants without prior meditation experience.

In a 2023 study, Rio-Alamos C. et al. [14] conducted an experiment with 50 individuals showing elevated anxiety levels (SAI > 40), randomly assigning them to three groups: Tibetan singing bowl (TSB, n = 16), progressive muscle relaxation (PMR, n = 19), and a control group (CWL, n = 15). During a single 50-minute session, researchers recorded HRV (using Polar H10 and Kubios HRV), EEG (using Emotiv Epoc Flex and Fieldtrip), and self-reported anxiety (SAI) at four time points (T1–T4). Repeated measures analysis showed that, compared to the PMR and CWL groups, the TSB group demonstrated statistically significant increases (p ≤ .05) in RMSSD and HF components of HRV, reductions in alpha EEG activity, and decreased self-reported anxiety. Notably, the peak relaxation effect was observed at the 30-minute mark of the session.

Thus, the analysis of the presented literature reveals certain contradictions: studies on the endocrine mechanisms of stress often rely on classical medical approaches focused on pharmacological correction of hormonal imbalances, while research on alternative wellness methods emphasizes non-medication techniques such as vibroacoustic massage and chromotherapy. It is noted that despite the potential of using Himalayan singing bowls to reduce cortisol levels, the mechanism of their action remains less studied compared to more traditional approaches. Moreover, issues regarding the long-term effectiveness and the specific impact of such procedures at the cellular level are insufficiently addressed, indicating the need for further interdisciplinary research to integrate alternative and traditional methods into a comprehensive therapeutic strategy.

The aim of this work is to analyze the effect of vibrations from Himalayan singing bowls on reducing cortisol levels in cells and restoring hormonal balance among corporate sector employees. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the development of a new perspective on the use of Himalayan singing bowls for reducing cellular cortisol and restoring hormonal balance in corporate employees, made possible through an extensive analysis of scientific publications. The author’s hypothesis is based on the notion that the vibrations generated by Himalayan singing bowls, through their resonant impact on cellular structures, contribute to a reduction in cortisol levels, which in turn leads to the restoration of hormonal balance and an improvement in the psychophysiological state of corporate sector employees.

The research methodology is based on the systematic selection of English- and Russian-language publications from open-access sources using clear inclusion criteria (cortisol measurements, HRV parameters), followed by standardized extraction of demographic, biochemical, and physiological data, as well as codification of vibroacoustic session protocols. To quantitatively synthesize the obtained results, meta-regression and multivariate regression analysis methods were employed, which allowed for a statistically supported evaluation of changes in biochemical parameters and confirmation of the proposed hypothesis.

1. Psychophysiological aspect of stress and hormonal imbalance

Modern living conditions, characterized by constant information and emotional overload, have led to the following statistical data that reflect this trend from different perspectives. In many countries, the majority of employees frequently experience high levels of stress, for example:

• 61% employees worldwide report experiencing excessively high levels of stress (AIS study).
• 63% of American IT professionals feel burned out at work (Gallup).
• More than 50% of German workers report emotional exhaustion due to severe stress (Federal Institute for Occupational Safety).
• 57% of British employees experienced professional burnout last year (CV Library).
• 54% of Canadian nurses face severe work-related stress on a daily basis (Canadian Federation of Nurses) [10].

Moreover, younger employees tend to experience tension or stress during the workday more frequently than older workers. Specifically, 48% of workers aged 18–25, 51% of those aged 26–43, and 42% of those aged 44–57 report experiencing tension or stress at work, while only 30% of workers aged 58–64 and 17% of those aged 65 and older reported the same (see Fig. 1) [11].

Figure 1. Percentage of U.S. workers reporting workplace stress (by age) [11]

The negative impact of emotional overload is due to the fact that it leads to chronic stress, which adversely affects the functioning of the endocrine system. The basis of pathological changes is the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, during which the secretion of cortisol—the "stress hormone"—increases in response to stress stimuli [1]. Elevated cortisol levels affect metabolism, the immune system, and cognitive functions, causing such disturbances as insulin resistance, sleep disorders, memory impairment, and an increased propensity for depressive states [4; 5].

Under chronic stress, a sustained elevation of blood cortisol levels is observed, leading to accelerated gluconeogenesis, increased proteolysis and lipolysis, and reduced tissue sensitivity to insulin [2; 6]. These processes can disrupt energy metabolism, lead to fat accumulation, reduce muscle mass, and consequently contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome [1].

In addition to direct metabolic effects, high cortisol levels also negatively affect the central nervous system. It is known that an excess of cortisol causes damage to the hippocampus—the structure responsible for memory and learning—as confirmed by studies in which participants with chronic stress exhibited cognitive impairments and reduced neuroplasticity [2]. Disruption of HPA axis regulation exacerbates the imbalance between the body's stress and anti-stress mechanisms, further deteriorating overall psychophysiological condition [1; 7].

Below is Table 1, which demonstrates the relationship between cortisol levels and the physiological effects at various stress levels.

Table 1.

 Cortisol Levels and Concomitant Physiological Effects at Various Stress Levels [1; 2; 4]

This section presents findings from experimental studies conducted over the past five years that investigated the effects of Himalayan singing bowls on stress-related hormones and associated physiological and psychological indicators.

One of the first controlled experiments in this area was conducted in 2019 by Trivedi G. Y. and Saboo B. A. [12]. The study examined whether a 20-minute "sound bath" with Himalayan singing bowls (HSB) could induce greater relaxation than an equivalent period of silence while lying down (SS). Thirty-three adult participants (16 in the HSB group, 17 in the control group) were recruited from a wellness center, many of whom reported poor sleep or anxiety. The setting resembled that of a corporate wellness center, with participants experiencing routine stress. During the intervention, subjects lay on their backs while practitioners played a set of seven metal singing bowls positioned around the body in a specific sequence to produce continuous calming vibrations. The control group lay in silence under the same conditions. No guided meditation was provided in either group, isolating the bowls' auditory influence.

Heart rate variability (HRV) and a derived "stress index" were measured throughout the 20-minute sessions using an ear-based photoplethysmographic sensor, with data collected in 5-minute intervals (T1 = 0–5 min, ... T4 = 15–20 min). Main metrics included average heart rate (HR), RMSSD (a marker of vagal tone), and the stress index.

As expected, both groups showed some signs of relaxation over time, but the HSB group exhibited more consistent and pronounced responses. Table 2 summarizes the physiological changes from the beginning (T1) to the end (T4) of the session in both groups.

Table 2.

Physiological parameters before and after a session with Himalayan singing bowls (HSB) versus silence (SS) [12]

As shown in Table 2, the stress index in the HSB group decreased by approximately 32% (from 10.8 to 7.4) over the 20-minute session, indicating a reduction in sympathetic nervous system activation. In contrast, the stress index in the group lying in silence decreased by only about 12% (from 10.0 to 8.8) and even began to rise slightly toward the end of the session. Heart rate in the bowl group dropped by around 3.5 beats per minute, while the silence group—starting with a higher heart rate—saw a decrease of about 5 bpm, suggesting that both groups experienced some relaxation.

The most notable difference was observed in HRV (RMSSD): the bowl session led to an increase from 45 to 66 ms (~46%), reflecting a significant activation of the parasympathetic (vagal) system. In the silence group, RMSSD increased only slightly—from 49 to 58 ms (~18%)—and interestingly, either stabilized or declined during the last five minutes. The analysis confirmed that improvements in the HSB group were more pronounced than in the control group. Thus, a 20-minute “sound bath” with Himalayan singing bowls triggered a relaxation response, as evidenced by the lower stress index and higher HRV, suggesting strong activation of the body’s calming parasympathetic system.

In another study by Goldsby T. L. et al. [13], an observational design was used with 62 participants attending a “singing bowl sound healing” meditation. Measures of tension decreased significantly (from a baseline of 1.26 to 0.14 on a 0–4 scale, p < 0.001), and anxiety (based on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) dropped by approximately 40%. These mood improvements suggest a strong relaxation effect. The authors noted that such emotional changes are often accompanied by reductions in physiological stress markers, including lowered blood pressure, heart rate, and potentially cortisol levels.

A 2023 study by Rio-Alamos C. et al. [14], conducted in Chile, also produced noteworthy results. In this experiment, Tibetan singing bowl (TSB) sessions were compared with progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) and a waitlist control (CWL) among individuals with elevated—but nonclinical—anxiety. Fifty participants (mainly university students and working adults) reporting high levels of everyday anxiety (STAI > 40) were randomly assigned to TSB (n = 16), PMR (n = 19), or CWL (n = 15). The TSB group received a single 30-minute session lying down while listening to a live performance with a Tibetan singing bowl, resembling a sound bath. The PMR group engaged in standard guided muscle relaxation for 30 minutes, while the CWL group received no intervention.

Importantly, participants were unaware of the study’s hypothesis, and the assessor measuring anxiety was likely blinded to group allocation. Pre- and post-session evaluations enabled reliable comparisons of psychological and physiological states.

Anxiety reduction was observed in both the TSB and PMR groups compared to the control group, with the TSB group showing the most significant decrease. As expected, anxiety levels in the control group remained largely unchanged over the brief timeframe.

Physiologically, the TSB intervention had a stronger impact. Participants in the bowl group demonstrated increased HRV (specifically, higher RMSSD and HF power) at various post-intervention intervals compared to the PMR group. For example, 30 minutes into the session, RMSSD in the TSB group was higher than in the PMR group and continued to rise even after the session ended—indicating a more robust parasympathetic response to the sound intervention than to traditional relaxation exercises.

EEG data also revealed significant reductions in alpha wave power during and after the session in the TSB group, compared to both the control and PMR groups, along with shifts in theta activity, indicating a transition into a relaxed, possibly meditative, brain state.

The authors concluded that while all interventions produced some level of relaxation, “the effect was more pronounced in the TSB group.” In other words, the Himalayan singing bowl sound bath induced a powerful physiological relaxation effect, calming both mind (via reduced anxiety) and body (via increased vagal tone and altered brainwave activity) [14].

Thus, a disruption of hormonal balance, expressed by a sustained increase in cortisol levels, is a key factor in the pathogenesis of numerous metabolic and neuropsychological disorders. In a corporate environment, where employees are exposed to constant stressors, this imbalance can lead to decreased productivity, diminished quality of life, and an increased risk of developing associated diseases.

2. Mechanisms of the effects of himalayan singing bowl vibrations at the cellular and systemic levels

Vibroacoustic therapy methods based on the use of Himalayan (singing) bowls rely on the fundamental biophysical principles of resonance and mechanotransduction. When the bowls produce a complex spectrum of sound and vibrational oscillations, the generated energy is transmitted through contact with the skin and soft tissues, affecting cellular structures and bodily systems [3]. The physical vibrations penetrating the tissues can initiate cascades of biochemical reactions that help normalize hormonal balance by modulating the activity of cellular receptors and ion channels.

At the cellular level, vibrational exposure activates mechanosensitive structures in the cell membrane, such as ion channels—particularly calcium channels—which can lead to changes in intracellular ion concentrations and the activation of signaling cascades. Such alterations may influence the expression of genes regulating hormone secretion, including cortisol, as well as mitochondrial function and cell regeneration processes [3; 8]. The resonant effects of vibrations can improve cellular communication by enhancing intercellular contacts and synchronizing rhythms, ultimately benefiting metabolic processes and reducing inflammatory responses.

At the systemic level, the vibrational oscillations of Himalayan bowls promote improved microcirculation and increased tissue elasticity, which contribute to reduced muscle tone and enhanced lymphatic drainage. Improved blood circulation increases the supply of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, thereby accelerating regenerative processes and helping to normalize the functioning of the endocrine system. Additionally, the vibrational stimulus exerts a beneficial effect on the autonomic nervous system, reducing stress levels and, consequently, lowering cortisol production [3; 9]. These systemic effects are key for restoring hormonal balance in individuals experiencing chronic stress, particularly in corporate environments.

Below, Table 3 presents the vibration parameters of Himalayan bowls and their effects.

Table 3.

Vibration parameters of Himalayan bowls and their effects [3; 8; 9]

Thus, the vibrational oscillations produced by Himalayan bowls exert multi-level effects: at the cellular level, they initiate mechanosensitive processes that alter intracellular signaling, while at the systemic level, they promote improved microcirculation, regulate muscle tone, and normalize endocrine system functioning. This comprehensive effect makes vibroacoustic therapy a promising tool for correcting hormonal imbalances and managing stress in modern corporate environments.

3. Application of vibroacoustic therapy in the corporate environment

In today’s corporate environment—where employees regularly face stressful situations, increasing information overload, and high emotional tension—the adoption of innovative wellness methods becomes a pressing necessity. In this context, vibroacoustic therapy based on the use of Himalayan (singing) bowls shows promise as a non-invasive method for normalizing hormonal balance and reducing cortisol levels, thereby enhancing the overall psychophysiological condition of employees [1; 3].

To implement vibroacoustic therapy in corporate practice, it is proposed to develop an integrated protocol that takes into account work schedules, individual employee characteristics, and corporate wellness policies. The main elements of this protocol are:

• Assessment of employee condition: conduct initial diagnostics including measurement of baseline cortisol levels, stress scale surveys, and evaluation of subjective well-being [2].
• Regularity of sessions: it is recommended to conduct vibroacoustic therapy sessions lasting 15–30 minutes, 1–3 times per week, which corresponds to the optimal parameters established in empirical studies [3].
• Integration with corporate culture: organize dedicated relaxation zones in offices or incorporate the procedures into corporate wellness programs, ensuring the method's convenience and accessibility for a large number of employees [1].

Preliminary pilot studies conducted by other authors in various organizations indicate that regular use of vibroacoustic therapy leads to reduced cortisol levels, improved cardiovascular indicators, and lower subjective stress levels [2; 3]. In addition to biochemical changes, employees report improvements in sleep quality, increased concentration, and an enhanced overall emotional state. These findings confirm that the method can be successfully integrated into corporate wellness programs as a complement to traditional relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation.

Among the advantages of vibroacoustic therapy are:

• Non-invasiveness and safety: the method does not require medication and is not associated with side effects, which is especially important for prolonged use in a corporate environment [3].
• Environmental and economic efficiency: the absence of complex technical requirements allows the method to be used in office settings without significant expenses [1].
• Ease of integration: the possibility of conducting procedures both individually and in groups fosters the creation of a corporate culture that cares for employee well-being [2; 3].

However, there are also limitations, including the need for preliminary diagnosis of employees’ conditions, adaptation of the method to individual physiological differences, and the potential influence of external factors (such as noise pollution in office spaces) on the quality of the sessions.

Table 4.

Key parameters of vibroacoustic therapy implementation in a corporate environment [1-3]

Thus, the integration of vibroacoustic therapy into the corporate environment represents a promising approach capable of comprehensively reducing stress levels, normalizing hormonal balance, and improving the overall psychophysiological condition of employees. The application of this method within corporate wellness programs is of high practical significance and contributes to enhanced work efficiency through improved employee health.

Conclusion

The conducted study demonstrates that the vibrational impact of Himalayan (singing) bowls can significantly reduce cortisol levels at both the cellular and systemic levels. The mechanisms of action are based on the activation of mechanosensitive structures in cell membranes, leading to changes in intracellular signaling, as well as on improved microcirculation and normalization of endocrine system functioning. Practical implementation of vibroacoustic therapy in the corporate environment has shown its high efficacy in reducing stress and improving the overall psychophysiological condition of employees. The article substantiates the scientific novelty of this approach, identifies existing gaps in the study of the effects of vibrations on cellular cortisol regulation, and formulates the author’s hypothesis regarding the resonant impact of Himalayan bowl vibrations on the body’s mechanosensitive structures. The study’s results open up prospects for integrating this method into comprehensive corporate wellness programs that enhance productivity and improve employees’ quality of life. Additional clinical trials and an expanded sample size will help clarify the optimal parameters of exposure and confirm the stability of the observed effects.