Embracing Healing Through Sound | A Personal Journey Through Postnatal Depression

Mother and Baby - Photo by Laura Garcia: https://www.pexels.com/photo/selective-focus-photography-of-woman-carrying-her-cute-baby-3398675/

As we approach World Health Day on 7th April 2025, the global focus turns to maternal and newborn health under the theme "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures" (who.int). While much attention is given to the physical aspects of birth, the emotional and mental well-being of mothers often goes unnoticed. This initiative resonates deeply with me, not only as a sound therapist and vocal coach but also as a mother who has navigated the complexities of postnatal depression.

After the birth of my second child, I found myself enveloped in the shadows of postnatal depression. The joy that typically accompanies new motherhood felt distant, replaced by overwhelming feelings of isolation and sadness.

In those challenging times, music became my sanctuary. Composing and immersing myself in melodies provided a channel to express emotions that words often failed to capture. Through creating and engaging with music, I discovered a path to healing and reconnection with myself and my family.

Understanding Postnatal Depression

Postnatal depression is far more than the "baby blues." While many new mothers experience mood swings or moments of sadness in the first few weeks postpartum, PND is deeper and longer-lasting. It can occur any time within the first year of childbirth and affects at least 1 in 10 women in the UK, though many cases go undiagnosed (NHS).

Common Symptoms of Postnatal Depression

Persistent low mood or feelings of sadness
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, even those once enjoyed
Difficulty bonding with the baby or feeling detached
Extreme fatigue or insomnia, despite exhaustion
Anxiety, panic attacks, or intrusive thoughts
Feeling overwhelmed, guilty, or inadequate
Withdrawing from family and friends

I remember feeling disconnected from myself, as if I were just going through the motions. Even when surrounded by love, I felt alone. That’s one of the hardest things about postnatal depression—it isolates you from the very people who want to help.

How Music Helped Me Find My Way Back

During that time, I struggled to express how I felt. But when I turned to music—playing piano, singing, and even writing songs—I felt a shift inside me. Music gave me an outlet for emotions that words alone couldn’t capture.

Science supports this. Studies show that music therapy can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, particularly for new mothers (BMC Psychology). Engaging in music activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing cortisol (the stress hormone) and increasing dopamine (the "feel-good" hormone).

Healing Through 417 Hz Frequency

One of the most powerful tools I discovered during my healing journey was sound frequency therapy, particularly 417 Hz. This specific frequency is believed to:

Encourage emotional release, helping to let go of past trauma
Shift negative thought patterns
Promote healing and renewal

Even now, I use 417 Hz sound baths, vocal toning, and breathwork to help clients release emotional blockages.

Practical Ways to Use Sound for Postnatal Healing

If you are navigating postnatal depression—or simply feeling emotionally depleted—these practices may help.

1. Sound Healing with 417 Hz Music

Listening to 417 Hz frequency music can support emotional clearing and renewal.

How to practice:

Find a quiet space.
Play 417 Hz music (many free options are available on YouTube or streaming platforms).
Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and allow the vibrations to wash over you.

Try this for 10 minutes daily and notice how it shifts your mood.

2. Vocal Toning for Emotional Release

Humming or toning with your own voice is a powerful way to release tension and regulate emotions.

How to practice:

Sit in a relaxed position.
Take a deep breath and hum on an "Oooo" or "Ahhh" sound for as long as comfortable.
Feel the vibrations in your chest and throat.
Repeat for 5-10 minutes, focusing on the sensation of sound moving through your body.

3. Singing as a Form of Expression

Singing—even if you don’t consider yourself a "singer"—can help regulate emotions and reduce stress.

How to practice:

Choose a song that resonates with your emotions.
Sing freely, without judgment.
Focus on how it feels, not how it sounds.

I wrote many songs during my recovery, and while they were deeply personal, they became a way to transform pain into healing.

Finding Support and Connection

Postnatal depression can feel like a lonely road, but you are not alone. If you're struggling, please reach out to someone—whether it's a friend, therapist, or support group (PANDAS Foundation).

At Song and Sound, I create safe spaces for healing through sound therapy, including:

🎶 Sound Baths to relax and reset

🌀 Breathwork & Vocal Toning for emotional release

🎵 Healing Music & Frequencies for inner balance

💌 Join my newsletter to receive a weekly mini meditation, exclusive discounts on my events, and practical sound healing tips.

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References and Further Reading

Sound Healing Near You

If you are interested in how Sound Therapy can help you, then get in touch, or find a Sound Therapist near you and attend a local Event. You will be glad you did!

About Me

I’m Talena, a singer-songwriter, sound healer, and vocal coach with over 25 years of experience in music and performance. I’m a proud member of the Complementary Medical Association and the Musicians’ Union and hold a Level 4 Diploma in Sound Therapy and a BA Hons in Music. I specialise in creating transformative sound experiences that harness the power of music and specific frequencies to promote healing and well-being.

My journey into sound healing began as a way to heal myself from the anxiety and stress that came with being a parent of children with special educational needs (SEN). Now, I’m dedicated to helping others in similar situations find balance, relaxation, and empowerment through the restorative power of sound.

Book a Private Sound Healing Event

Looking for a unique way to nurture your mind, body, and soul? Book a private sound healing event with me! Together, we’ll create a soothing, personalised experience using the healing properties of sound to leave you feeling balanced and renewed.