How to Use a Singing Bowl: A Beginner’s Guide for Mindfulness

If you’ve ever held a singing bowl—with its smooth metal curves and the soft, resonant hum it makes when struck—you might have wondered how to use it properly. Singing bowls (also called meditation bowls or sound bowls) have been used for centuries in Buddhist and Himalayan traditions to calm the mind, deepen meditation, and create a sense of peace. But if you’re new to them, how to use a singing bowl can feel a little confusing: Do you strike it? Rub it? Where do you hold it? 

This guide will break down how to use a singing bowl step by step, from preparing your space to adjusting the sound for your needs. We’ll also answer common questions like “how to use a meditation bowl” for mindfulness practices and “how to use a sound bowl” to reduce stress—so you can start enjoying its benefits right away. 

Step 1: Prepare Your Space & Singing Bowl 

Before you learn how to use a singing bowl, start with the basics: setting up a calm environment and getting to know your bowl. 

Choose the Right Bowl (for Beginners) 

Singing bowls come in different sizes (from palm-sized to large bowls that sit on the floor) and materials (usually metal, like brass or bronze). For beginners, a small to medium bowl (4–6 inches wide) is best—it’s easy to hold and produces a clear, gentle sound. You don’t need an expensive bowl to start; focus on one that feels comfortable in your hands. 

Find a Quiet, Comfortable Spot 

Singing bowls work best in low-noise spaces—think a bedroom, meditation corner, or even a quiet office. Sit on a cushion or chair with your back straight (this helps you breathe deeply and focus on the sound). Place a soft mat or towel under the bowl if you’re setting it on a hard surface (like a table)—this prevents it from slipping and softens any harsh vibrations. 

Step 2: Hold the Singing Bowl Correctly 

How you hold the bowl affects the sound it makes. Here’s the simplest way for beginners, whether you’re learning how to use a singing bowl for meditation or relaxation: 

Option 1: Hold the Bowl in Your Hand 

1. Cradle the bottom of the bowl in the palm of your non-dominant hand (e.g., left hand if you’re right-handed). 
2. Keep your fingers relaxed—don’t grip the bowl tightly. Tension will muffle the sound. 
3. Rest your dominant hand lightly on your thigh, holding the bowl’s mallet (the wooden or rubber stick that comes with it). 
   

This position is great for how to use a meditation bowl while sitting—you can feel the vibrations in your palm, which helps you stay present. 

Option 2: Set the Bowl on a Surface 

If the bowl is too large to hold, place it on a soft mat or the bowl’s stand (if it comes with one). Hold the mallet in your dominant hand, keeping your arm relaxed. This works well for how to use a sound bowl to fill a room with sound (like before a yoga session). 

Step 3: Make Sound with the Singing Bowl (2 Methods) 

There are two main ways to use a singing bowl: striking it (for a short, clear tone) or rubbing it (for a long, humming vibration). Both are easy to learn—start with striking, then try rubbing. 

Method 1: Striking the singing Bowl (Quick Tone) 

This is the simplest way to use a singing bowl, perfect for beginners or when you want a quick moment of calm: 

1. Hold the mallet like you would hold a pencil—loosely, with your wrist relaxed. 
2. Gently tap the outer edge of the bowl (not the center) with the mallet. Aim for the area where the bowl curves outward—this produces the clearest sound. 
3. Let the sound ring out. Close your eyes and breathe deeply as you listen to it fade. 
   

This method is ideal for how to use a meditation bowl to start or end a meditation session—it signals to your brain that it’s time to slow down. 

Method 2: Rubbing the singsing Bowl (Sustained Vibration) 

Rubbing the bowl creates a long, humming sound (called “singing”), which is great for deep relaxation or stress relief. Here’s how to do it (it takes a little practice!):

1. Hold the mallet in your dominant hand, wrapping your fingers around the handle. Press the rubber or wooden end of the mallet gently against the outer edge of the bowl.
2. Slowly move the mallet in a circular motion around the edge—like you’re tracing the bowl’s rim. Keep the pressure steady (too hard, and the sound will be harsh; too soft, and it won’t “sing”).
3. You’ll hear the sound build gradually—keep moving the mallet until the hum is clear and steady. If the sound cuts out, adjust your pressure and try again. 
   

This is key for how to use a sound bowl to reduce anxiety—the sustained vibration can help slow your heart rate and calm racing thoughts. 

Step 4: Use the Singing Bowl for Specific Goals 

Now that you know the basics of how to use a singing bowl, here’s how to adapt it for common needs—like meditation or stress relief. 

How to Use a Meditation Bowl for Mindfulness 

1. Sit in your prepared space, holding the bowl in your hand. 
   
2. Strike the bowl once, then close your eyes. Focus on the sound as it fades—if your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the tone. 
   
3. When the sound is gone, take 3 deep breaths. Then, try rubbing the bowl to create a sustained hum. Let the vibration fill your body, focusing on how it feels in your hands or chest. 
   
4. Continue for 5–10 minutes (or as long as you like). End by striking the bowl once more—this is a “signal” that your meditation is complete. 

How to Use a Sound Bowl for Stress Relief 

1. Sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Place the bowl on a surface near you (like a nightstand) or hold it in your lap. 
   
2. Rub the bowl to create a long hum. Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4, and exhale for 6—let the sound guide your breath. 
   
3. If you’re feeling tense, focus on the area of your body that’s tight (e.g., your shoulders). Imagine the bowl’s vibration melting the tension away as you breathe. 
   

Common Mistakes to Avoid (for Beginners) 

Gripping the Bowl Too Tight: Tension in your hands will stop the bowl from vibrating properly. Keep your fingers relaxed! 

Tapping the Center of the Bowl: The center is thicker, so it produces a dull sound. Always tap or rub the outer edge. 

Moving the Mallet Too Fast: When rubbing, slow, steady circles work best. Rushing will make the sound cut out. 

FAQ: Your Questions About Using a Singing Bowl Answered 

Q: How long should I use a singing bowl each day? 

A: Even 2–3 minutes works! It’s better to use it for a short time daily than for an hour once a week. Start small and build up. 

Q: Can I use a singing bowl if I’m not into meditation? 

A: Absolutely! You can use it to calm down after a busy day, set a peaceful mood for dinner, or even help you fall asleep. How to use a singing bowl doesn’t have to involve meditation—it’s just about using sound to feel better. 

Q: Why does my singing bowl sound “bad”? 

A: It’s probably not the bowl—it’s practice! Try adjusting your grip, the pressure of the mallet, or where you tap/rub. With a little time, you’ll find the sweet spot. 

Elevate Your Singing Bowl Practice with a Handcrafted Piece 

Now that you know how to use a singing bowl, you might want a bowl that feels special—one that’s made with care and aligns with mindfulness traditions. Our Handmade Brass Singing Bowl is designed for beginners: it’s the perfect size (5 inches wide) for holding, has a smooth rim for easy rubbing, and produces a warm, clear sound that’s ideal for meditation or stress relief. 

Crafted by artisans using traditional techniques, it’s more than a tool—it’s a reminder to slow down and find peace in the sound. Click here to shop, and start turning your new skills into a daily mindfulness ritual.

⭐Get Your Singing Bowl Now⭐