Tibetan singing bowls are simple, beautiful instruments with a long history. They are used in spiritual rituals and meditation, but can also be appreciated for the patience and focus they cultivate in those who play them. Practitioners of Nada Yoga ("Yoga of Sound") believe the singing bowls balance the spirit and heal the body. Traditionally, the bowls may be made of five to twelve metal types, including gold, silver, and iron. The best way to clean your singing bowl will depend on what it is made of.
Things You'll Need:
- Mild Liquid Soap
- Orange Oil-Based Cleaner
- Wet Silicone Carbide Paper (220 Grade) Or Crocus Paper
- Fresh-Squeezed Lemon Juice
- Brass Wadding, Silver Polish Or Silver Dip, Or Jeweler'S Rouge
- Boiling Or Warm Water
Washing Up
Fill the bottom of the bowl with liquid soap, and fill the bowl with boiling water. Leave overnight and rinse. If this does not sufficiently clean the bowl, fill the bowl with warm water and fresh lemon juice and leave overnight. For deeper cleaning, use an orange oil-based cleaner.
Scrub gently with brass wadding, or a brass or bronze polish. If your bowl is made predominantly of silver, use a silver polish or silver dip. If it is primarily gold, use jeweler's rouge.
If there are file marks or rough edges on the lip of your bowl, use a fine paper to smooth the rim, such as wet silicone carbide paper, beginning with grade 220, and moving up to 400 or 600, finishing with 800 if you wish.
Tip
It is also acceptable to simply wipe your bowl with a soft cloth.
Writer Bio
Jessica Alzarana has a Bachelor of Music in music composition from the University of North Texas and is currently pursuing a graduate degree in music therapy from Texas Woman's University. Alzarana essays have been published by UNICEF State of the World Children's Report & BootsNAll.
Related Articles