Living in a city with 2.7 million people can be stressful, to put it mildly. We’re constantly on the go, fixated on our screens, wearing multiple hats at our jobs, and just plainly, trying to keep our heads above water.
Sure, there are plenty of immediate ways to decompress, whether it’s getting some quick shut-eye, going for a walk around your neighborhood, or having a glass of wine after a long day. But there are means of achieving a more long-term, holistic kind of peace and relaxation. In honor of May being National Meditation Month, we thought we’d try a “gong bath.” ‘Cause why not?
If you’re wondering if this is anything like a bath of the soapy variety, it is not. “Gong baths,” or sound meditation, is an ancient practice that has been introduced to cities like LA, New York, and now Chicago at a new studio called Anatomy Redefined, located at 1241 West Madison Street.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to facilitate your meditative state (which isn’t an easy feat, for some), you won’t find a better place in the city. Upon walking in, we were welcomed in the lobby with calming scents of sage and chamomile, hot tea, and owner Liz Meador’s warm and generous disposition. When we entered the studio, we were immediately compelled to hush ourselves as we took in the tranquil atmosphere. Dark walls, dimness from candle lighting, cosmically-inspired décor, and mats that looked as comfy as beds were more than enough to set the mood.
As for the session itself, well, it certainly worked. At just the right decibel, Liz played five planetary gongs attuned to various aspects of human energy, along with quartz crystal bowls, as we settled into our bodies and eventually entered into a calm, meditative state. Wool blankets, large pillows, and fragrant eye masks made it even more restful. What lasts for 60 minutes easily feels like 20, because before we knew it, we were present, then we weren’t, then we were again. Trust us, once it’s over, you won’t be rushing to leave.
Living with three chronic illnesses, studio owner Liz Meador embarked upon a life dedicated to healing herself and others, with studies and multiple certifications in western herbalism, Reiki, advanced pilates, wellness coaching, flower essences, and acutonics. After spending time working at a wellness center and apothecary in Malibu, Liz returned to the Midwest to help others control their mind, balance their nervous system, and combat anxiety through her practices.
Anatomy Redefined also offers various pilates classes, lectures from guest instructors and healing experts, and workshops. Do your mind, body, and soul a favor and give sound meditation a shot. You owe it to yourself. Thank us later.
