FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What a bowl is, how to choose one, how to make it sing, and everything that happens after you order. If yours is not here, just ask us.

What is a singing bowl?

A singing bowl is a handcrafted metal bowl that produces a rich, resonant tone when struck or rubbed around the rim with a mallet. Rooted in Himalayan tradition, singing bowls are used today for meditation, sound healing, yoga and relaxation.

How do I play a singing bowl?

There are two ways to play a singing bowl. To strike it, tap the outside gently with the padded end of the mallet for a clear bell tone. To make it sing, hold the mallet like a pen, press it firmly against the outer rim, and circle slowly and steadily until a continuous tone builds.

Which mallet should I use?

Use the bare wooden side for rimming and a brighter, clearer tone. Use a suede or felt-covered mallet for striking and a softer, warmer sound. Larger bowls often sound best with a heavier, padded mallet.

How do I play tingsha?

To play tingsha, hold the strap in the middle so the two cymbals hang freely. Then gently tap their edges together, either horizontally or at a slight angle. Let them ring out fully without touching each other again. A light touch gives the purest, longest tone.

Why won't my singing bowl sing?

If your singing bowl won't sing, the cause is almost always technique, not the bowl. Slow down, press the mallet more firmly, and keep even contact with the rim. Strike the bowl once first to start it resonating, then begin circling. A rattling or buzzing sound usually means you're moving too fast.

Do I need a singing bowl set for beginners?

No. One good singing bowl is enough for beginners and for personal meditation practice. Singing bowl sets tuned to different notes are mainly for sound healers and practitioners who run layered sound baths.

Can I play a singing bowl if I'm a complete beginner?

Absolutely. Start by gently striking the bowl and listening to the tone, then practice rimming for a few minutes a day. Most people get a steady singing tone within a week of short practice sessions.

What is a gong used for?

A gong is a large hand-hammered metal instrument that produces deep, powerful waves of sound. Gongs are used in sound baths, meditation, sound healing and ceremonies, because their rich, layered vibration can be felt through the whole body and helps listeners relax deeply.

What is a Tibetan bell and dorje?

A Tibetan bell (ghanti) and dorje (vajra) are a traditional pair of ritual objects in Tibetan Buddhism. The bell represents wisdom and the dorje represents compassion, and they are used together in prayer and meditation. The bell can be rung by gently rotating it or played like a singing bowl by circling a stick around its rim.

Where are your singing bowls made?

All our singing bowls are made in Nepal, in our own workshop using traditional techniques passed down through generations. You're welcome to visit and hear the collection in person.

Still not sure which bowl is yours?

Write to us in Kathmandu and a person who has held these bowls will answer — usually the same day.