Mat, chair or hammock?
Three ways to settle into a sound bath. Here's how they differ - and how to pick the one that suits your body.
You don't need to believe in anything.
Sound therapy works with your nervous system - the vibrations of the gongs and singing bowls slow your breath and settle your body whether you arrive as a complete skeptic or a lifelong seeker. There's no chanting, no chakra talk, no asking you to believe anything. Just lie down and listen.
People often describe it as one of the deepest rests they've had in years. What you take from it is yours.
Before you book - a few things to flag
Group sound baths are gentle and welcoming, but please get in touch first if any of these apply to you:
- You're in the first trimester of pregnancy
- You have a pacemaker or other implanted electronic device
- You've had recent surgery or are recovering from an acute injury
- You have a history of seizures or epilepsy
- You're currently in active treatment for a serious mental-health condition
- You experience severe sound or vibration sensitivity
None of these are automatic blocks. A quick message via the contact form or on WhatsApp lets me adjust the session to suit you - or suggest a 1:1 instead, if that would work better.
Ground-Level Mat
The classic sound bath setup. Mats can be provided, though bringing your own is recommended - plus a blanket and pillow to get properly comfortable. Best if you're happy lying flat for an hour.
Best if…
- You like to lie completely flat
- You're comfortable on the floor
- You enjoy the traditional yoga-style approach
- You want to feel grounded and close to the vibrations
Zero-Gravity Chair
A reclining chair that raises your knees and supports your full body - the position takes pressure off the lower back. It isn't padded, so a blanket is worth bringing. £5 more than a mat. Limited spaces per session, so book early.
Best if…
- You have back, hip, or neck discomfort
- You prefer a slightly upright recline to lying flat
- You want full-body support without lying on the floor
- You're new to sound baths and unsure about the floor
- You find getting up and down off the floor difficult
Aerial Hammock
Only available at Heavenly Fitness, Maidstone. The hammock holds your weight so completely that the sound vibrations travel through your whole body. No aerial experience needed.
Best if…
- You want the deepest sense of weightlessness
- You enjoy a gently cocooned, cradle-like feeling
- You're comfortable being suspended a foot or two off the ground
What it costs
Ground-Level Mat
£20
per session
Zero-Gravity Chair
£25
per session · limited spaces
Aerial Hammock
£30
aerial sessions only
First time? The Intro Pass is £35 for two sessions on a mat, or £45 for the zero-gravity chair.
Common questions
- Can I switch from the mat to the chair on the day?
- If a chair is free, yes. Chairs are limited per session (usually 2 to 4 depending on the venue), so booking ahead is the safest way to guarantee one.
- Do I need to bring anything?
- A blanket and pillow - they aren't provided and they make a real difference to comfort and warmth. Mats and eye masks can be provided, though bringing your own is recommended; chairs are provided for chair bookings. Wear comfortable clothes, bring a bottle of water, and arrive 5 to 10 minutes early.
- Is the chair more comfortable than the mat?
- It depends on your body. The zero-gravity chair takes pressure off the lower back by raising the knees above the heart, which many people find more comfortable than lying flat. If you regularly lie on the floor without issue, the mat is just as good - and £5 cheaper.
- I have back, neck or hip pain - what should I pick?
- The zero-gravity chair is the more accommodating option. It supports your whole body in a slight recline with your knees raised, which usually relieves rather than aggravates back, neck and hip tension. If you're unsure, message ahead - we can talk through what would suit best.
- Can I sit upright if I need to?
- Yes. Sitting on a chair (or against a wall) is always an option - just let me know when you arrive. The sound bath works the same regardless of position.
- Are the chairs and mats accessible for larger bodies or limited mobility?
- The zero-gravity chairs comfortably support most adult body sizes. If getting up and down from the floor is difficult, the chair is the easier choice. For specific needs (wheelchair transfer, mobility aids), please get in touch before booking and I'll confirm what the venue can accommodate.
Ready to book?
See upcoming sound baths in Maidstone and Kent. Mat or chair, your pick.