Category: handicrafts of Nepal

What are Tingsha Bells?

Tingsha bells consist of two small cymbals connected by a leather string. These circular chimes often feature chants or energy symbols etched around their outer surface. They’re also known as Tibetan chimes or Tibetan hand cymbals.

You can frequently find Tingsha bells in sound healing centers, yoga studios, temples, and monasteries. Tibetan Buddhists and Hindu priests use them in prayers and rituals as part of their spiritual practices.

Tingsha bells are commonly used in meditation to help center the mind by focusing on their soothing sound. They’re also utilized in sound healing and for clearing rooms of negative energy. Additionally, they can enrich musical arrangements by adding depth to the overall sound. One notable feature of Tingsha bells is their long-lasting tones.

Origination 

Tingsha bells have ancient origins deeply rooted in Tibetan sound healing traditions. They’ve served as tools for enhancing physical, mental, and emotional well-being since the inception of sound healing practices. Their history spans back to the earliest days of sound healing. 

In Tibet, Buddhists incorporated Tingsha bells into their rituals, ceremonies, and sound healing sessions. These practices demonstrate the profound impact of sound on our bodies through vibrations and frequencies. While science is still exploring the mechanisms behind sound healing, current research shows promising results. Tingsha bells, as Tibetan percussion instruments, produce sacred “ohm” sounds that are often used in meditation practices.

What is Tingsha made of? 

Tingsha bells are meticulously crafted by hand using a casting method. These bells are typically made from a blend of seven premium metals, carefully selected to produce a robust sound and vibrations at the ideal frequency.

Each Tingsha consists of twin metallic disks crafted from an alloy blend. The seven metals commonly used in Tibetan Tingsha include gold, silver, mercury, copper, iron, tin, and lead.

Once crafted, each pair of Tingsha bells undergoes individual testing by certified personnel and sound healing practitioners to ensure top-notch quality and performance. This meticulous testing process guarantees that the quality of the Tingsha bells remains uncompromised.

Sound Healing phenomenon 

Sound healing is a natural, gentle, and non-invasive form of vibrational energy medicine. Sound therapy has been around since the beginning of human life. Natural sounds of waterfalls, birds chirping, rainfall, wind-flow, and so on were the initial relaxing sounds. 

Everything in the world is frequency and vibration, and when tuned, those frequencies and vibrations create sound. Tingsha creates a very high-frequency sound ranging from above 2000 Hertz and above.

Tingsha Bells for sound healing

Tingsha bells offer an affordable and intriguing avenue for sound healing. They come in various sizes, each producing its unique frequency. These frequencies hold significance for different organs and chakras within our bodies. Using tingsha bells can be a wonderful way to commence and conclude a meditation session. The sound they emit aids in both opening up for meditation and then gently closing the session.

These sound vibrations work on rectifying imbalances within the body even before they manifest visibly. Essentially, they act as a shield and early intervention system, maintaining the body in an actively protected state. This holistic approach helps maintain overall well-being by resetting our physiology to a natural equilibrium and keeping our organs functioning optimally.

An increasing number of individuals are turning to tingsha bells to purify their surroundings and cleanse their aura. This cost-effective method is also popular for clearing crystals. When struck together, the tingsha bells produce a clear, resonant sound that lingers for a surprisingly long duration.

How to play Tingsha? 

Tingsha bells are wonderfully versatile and easy to use. You don’t need to remember a lot of instructions to play them effectively. There are several ways you can incorporate tingsha bells into your routine.

One common practice is to use them as a meditation aid. By taking just a few moments each day to escape the stress of your work environment, you can focus on the soothing sound of the bells. It’s a simple yet effective way to clear your mind and find some peace amidst your busy day.

• Traditional Ways 

Maintain a relaxed sitting position and close your eyes. Hold the tingsha bell by its string above the metal disks and gently tap them together. Focus on the sound until it fades away, then notice the quietness around you. This simple practice takes just a few minutes and helps alleviate stress.

There are two traditional ways to use tingsha bells: either strike the rims of both cymbals with both hands above the metal part or hit one cymbal against the other in an up-and-down motion while holding them by the strings.

• Modern Ways 

The modern ways of playing Tingsha are evolving to date. With the increase in sound healing practices all around the world, much research are being conducted to determine the best frequency to use.

You can add an interesting dimension to the sound if you spin them around after you hit them. This helps to throw the sound around you. It’s a good way for room clearance and heals others. You can even do it by twirling them around after the hit.

In traditional methods, you don’t have control over the movement of the disks. However, you can play them in a more controlled manner by tightly holding them sideways and striking them. This allows for a percussive style of playing. Layering multiple strikes creates overlapping sound waves, providing a deeply immersive auditory experience that feels uplifting.

You can customize the sound of Tingsha bells by adding your own creative touch to achieve different pitches. Experiment with using mallets or strikers for varying effects. Padded mallets produce softer, lower notes, while a wooden strike offers a purer sound. Using metal strikers results in sharper notes, allowing for a diverse range of tones and textures. The use of multiple tingsha is also a great way to purify and boost concentration. You can hang the tingsha on wooden sticks and play them simultaneously to produce multiple sound waves and frequencies.

Health Benefits

Modern medicine typically intervenes with the physical body once issues are evident, often after they’ve become irreversible. Conversely, sound healing maintains balance across mental, spiritual, and physical realms, bolstering overall well-being.

Within our ears, the vestibulocochlear nerve links to the vagus nerve, a key parasympathetic nerve responsible for stress reduction, blood pressure regulation, and muscle relaxation.

Certain sounds can influence brain waves, altering levels of alertness and consciousness. Therapeutic sound waves possess the potential to impact DNA, move objects through levitation, and even combat viruses.

Tingsha bells, with their prolonged tones, yield profoundly positive healing effects. They facilitate engagement and healing across the spectrum of consciousness: Source/Spirit, Soul, Mind, Emotion, and Body.

As instruments of sound healing, Tingsha bells don’t merely address physical ailments; they engage with the entire biochemical process. Our emotional state deeply influences our physical well-being, underscoring the interconnectedness of mind and body.

Furthermore, the soul serves as the interface between our divine essence and physical existence. Nurturing the soul’s potential fosters profound healing, addressing fragmented aspects and promoting holistic well-being.

Notes and intensity 

Tingsha bells have varying effects based on their intensity and pitch. Loud and robust tingsha bring heightened awareness, while those with subtler pitches induce relaxation and a mellower state.

If you have seven sets of tingsha for your seven chakras, you can align your chakras with them. Give a tap on all seven chimes and let your brain waves absorb the sound and go with the flow these waves make.

Tingsha for chakra alignment 

The chakras, seven energy centers located along the spine from the base to the crown of the head, can become misaligned or imbalanced due to various factors like diet, thought patterns, sleep, and more. This imbalance can affect the corresponding endocrine glands. However, through consistent practice of simplified sound healing with tingsha bells, each chakra can be systematically opened and restored to a healthy state. By listening to and utilizing sound healing techniques, even initial damage to the endocrine glands can be addressed and reversed.

Anybody can easily learn this meditation and quickly align and balance these chakras in your life.

Many meditations and sound healing practitioners around the world have been experimenting with the frequencies and mix of Tingha with other sound healing equipment. Tingshas can be played alone and collectively with other sound healing equipment.

Benefits of Tingsha 

Many meditations and sound healing practitioners around the world have been experimenting with the frequencies and mix of Tingha with other sound healing equipment. Tingshas can be played alone and collectively with other sound healing equipment.

·      Heal auras 

Even the gentlest tap sets them off, sending their sound outward with clarity. The powerful notes reach up to the head, sweeping away negativity from our aura. What’s fascinating is how they affect the body and aura differently compared to Tibetan singing bowls. They complement each other like siblings, each with its unique touch. Once you have one, you might find yourself wanting the other for a refreshing change.

·      Get a meditative state of mind 

The strong vibrations of tingsha bells cut through the tangled mess of our thoughts, melting away the stress that accumulates in our busy lives. Meditation brings harmony to our body, soul, and thoughts, grounding us in the present moment. It’s a practice that fosters peace and tranquility, allowing our minds to quiet down from the constant rush.

The powerful waves from tingsha bells guide our alert and tense brain waves into a state of deep relaxation and rejuvenation.

·      Toning 

One of the traditional uses of tingsha bells in therapy is known as toning. Toning aims to alleviate mental stress and lower anxiety levels by facilitating the movement of positive energy while dispelling negativity. These bells encourage the circulation of beneficial energies throughout the body, promoting the restoration of robust brain waves. 

·      Relieve stress, anger, and anxiety 

Healing sounds provide a unique way to connect vibrations with our bodies, allowing us to experience specific sounds resonating within the organs they’re associated with.

For instance, the sound related to the kidneys helps alleviate fear and stress, fostering a sense of gentleness and determination. Similarly, the sound associated with the liver transforms anger into kindness, control, and decisiveness, bringing vitality and enthusiasm to life.

As we listen to these sounds, a feeling of balance and openness arises, deepening our connection to our core. This restores the three main energy centers in our body—head, chest, and lower abdomen—promoting overall well-being and hormonal balance.

·      Relieve depression and grief 

Few things are as disruptive and jarring as unexpected noises. When we’re exposed to such sounds, our brain’s stress pathways are activated, leading to the release of stress-related hormones. Tingsha sound waves, however, have the remarkable ability to calm and soothe us, shielding us from these disturbances.

Our lungs are closely tied to feelings of grief, depression, and sadness. When we engage with the sound of tingsha bells, these emotions can be transformed into courage, confidence, and inner strength. You’ll likely feel the gentle vibration resonating in your chest area.

For those with limited knowledge or skepticism about sound healing, using Tingsha bells is highly recommended. These versatile and user-friendly instruments add a beautiful dimension of healing sound waves to our lives, offering a simple yet effective tool for promoting well-being.

Wood carving, an ancient artisanal practice, has been deeply ingrained in Nepalese culture for generations. This venerable craft stands as a pivotal pillar of the nation’s cultural heritage, exerting a profound influence on the daily existence of its people. Firmly interwoven into Nepal’s historical tapestry, this art form maintains its vibrant presence and relevance in contemporary Nepalese society.

Nepali wood carving is celebrated for its meticulous and intricate artistry. Accomplished artisans employ an array of specialized tools, including chisels, hammers, and saws, to meticulously etch elaborate patterns into timber. Typically, indigenous wood varieties such as teak, rosewood, and saal form the canvas for these masterful creations, often sourced locally.

Over the course of time, the art of wood carving in Nepal has gracefully embraced technological advancements and design shifts. Initially, its primary purpose revolved around the crafting of religious and ceremonial artifacts. In the present day, however, its scope has expanded exponentially, encompassing a diverse spectrum of objects, ranging from ornamental treasures to furniture and architectural embellishments.

The ancient tradition of woodcarving in Nepal has its roots dating back to the 7th century AD. The exquisite woodwork that graces the temples, palaces, and traditional homes of the Kathmandu Valley stands as a tribute to the remarkable expertise of Nepali craftsmen.

The Peacock Window (Mayurpankh): A splendid illustration of Nepali woodcarving can be found in Bhaktapur, within the form of the Peacock Window. Elaborate carvings on this window showcase a peacock displaying its majestic plumage, symbolizing auspiciousness and affluence.

Temple Entrances (Deuba): Renowned for their intricate depictions of deities and sacred emblems, Nepali temple entrances are crafted with finesse. These entrances, often constructed from teakwood or cedarwood, grace numerous ancient temples and palatial structures across Nepal.

Nava Durga Wooden Masks: Another sought-after expression of Nepali woodcarving takes the form of wooden masks known as Nava Durga. These masks play a prominent role in traditional dances and festivals, embodying diverse deities and malevolent spirits. Crafted from lightweight wood and adorned with vibrant hues, these masks breathe life into cultural celebrations.

Mane Prayer Wheels: Embraced by Buddhists for reciting prayers and mantras, cylindrical prayer wheels are a distinctive feature. Nepali versions, intricately carved from wood, bear representations of sacred symbols, including the revered mantra Om Mani Padme Hum.

Murti Statues: The art of Nepali woodcarving extends to the creation of exquisite statues portraying deities and sacred personalities. Crafted predominantly from sandalwood and other precious timbers, these statues exhibit intricate carvings that capture the essence of the deity, its attributes, and symbolic elements.

Singing bowls are an ancient instrument used for centuries in various cultures, including those in Asia, particularly Nepal. These bowls, also known as Tibetan or Himalayan singing bowls, are made from a combination of metals, such as copper, tin, and silver.

Singing Bowls find their purpose in fostering profound meditation and safeguarding against a multitude of common and painful afflictions. The resonant strains of their melodious harmonies cultivate an environment of serenity, soothing the mind and granting solace to the entire body. Their therapeutic applications extend to aiding cancer patients and mitigating the burdens of post-traumatic stress disorder. In educational settings, they garner popularity for orchestrating cohesive group endeavors and honing students’ concentration.

Emitting a distinctively tranquil and meditative resonance that has gained recent popularity, the mechanics of singing bowls beckon our curiosity. Within this article, we shall delve into the scientific underpinnings of singing bowls and their profound influence on both our physical and mental states.

The Physics Governing Singing Bowls Singing bowls orchestrate their auditory spectacle through a process termed resonance. When the bowl is struck or caressed with a mallet, it commences to quiver, thus birthing a sonic wave. This wave unfurls and harmonizes with the surrounding air, yielding an exquisite and melodious cadence. Notably, the vibrations stemming from singing bowls are distinctive due to their myriad harmonics, resulting in a sumptuously textured resonance.

Moreover, the sonic undulations propelled by singing bowls tangibly impact our corporeal forms. Our bodies, predominantly composed of water, facilitate the swifter travel of sound waves through this aqueous medium compared to their pace through air. As we engage with singing bowls’ sonance, our physique absorbs these oscillations, which in turn can invigorate our cells and tissues. This nurturing interaction engenders a spectrum of physical and emotional advantages, spanning from diminished stress and heightened mood to augmented serenity.

The Profits of Singing Bowls Throughout centuries, singing bowls have epitomized tools for meditation and restoration. Presented herewith are several gains bestowed by singing bowls:

• Mitigation of Stress and Anxiety: The sound waves birthed by singing bowls wield the power to alleviate stress and anxiety by bestowing tranquility upon the psyche and soma.
• Elevation of Mood: Scientific inquiry has illuminated singing bowls’ capacity to elevate mood and alleviate sensations of despondency.
• Enrichment of Mindfulness: A symbiotic relationship unfolds between singing bowls and practices of mindfulness and meditation. The former facilitates mental quietude and focal concentration.
• Fortification of the Immune System: Singing bowls’ vibrations can catalyze the immune system’s vigor, thus augmenting its capacity to combat ailments and maladies.
• Enhancement of Sleep: By fomenting relaxation and alleviating stress, singing bowls can bolster the quality of sleep.

The Enigma of Nepal Singing Bowls Nepal emerges as a venerated haven for singing bowls, where the art of crafting these melodic marvels has traversed generations. The crafting of Nepal singing bowls entails a specialized method that involves the amalgamation of heated and hammered metals, culminating in a matchless resonance. These bowls, often meticulously handcrafted, command weeks to reach their final form.

Distinct shapes and sizes of Nepal singing bowls engender a panorama of tonalities and undulations, each accompanied by its distinct boons. The subsequent varieties of Nepal singing bowls abound:

• Chakra Singing Bowls: These bowls are harnessed for chakra healing, intrinsically tied to specific chakras within the corporeal framework.
• Healing Singing Bowls: Versatile in application, these bowls cater to general healing aims and are amenable to deployment across any bodily region.
• Meditation Singing Bowls: Meticulously designed for meditation pursuits, Nepal singing bowls elevate the quality of meditative experiences and foster serenity.

Emanating from antiquity, singing bowls incarnate a captivating and timeless instrument dedicated to healing and meditation. The entrancing harmonies and vibrations unleashed by singing bowls fundamentally influence our holistic well-being.

As we fathom the scientific bedrock underpinning singing bowls, our capacity to appreciate their merits burgeons, thus facilitating their integration into our daily routines. Whether the aspiration is stress alleviation, mood enhancement, or meditation refinement, the melodious allure of singing bowls stands poised to sculpt transformative narratives in our lives. Embark upon this journey and ascertain firsthand the transformative potential they harbor.

Kindly access our diverse collection of full moon singing bowls by clicking here.

Pottery is an art form that involves creating objects from clay and hardening them through firing. The term “pottery” comes from the French word “Poeteric” or the Latin word “Potium”, which both mean “drinking vessel”. Pottery has been an integral part of human life since the beginning of human history and has evolved over time. The earliest evidence of pottery dates back to around 10,000 years ago near the Nile River. In Nepal, modern ceramics were introduced in 1980, and today, earthenware, ceramics, and porcelains are used for daily use, scientific experiments, and electrical apparatus. Although the pottery industry in Nepal is not very large scale, it operates efficiently under small-scale cottage industrial groups.

Pottery, glassware, and kitchenware industries are fast developing in Nepal, with major centers in Thimi, Chyamhasingh, Pottery Square Bhaktapur, Khokana, and Bungmati. The skills of Nepali potters have been passed down from generation to generation, and entire families trace their heritage alongside the occupation of pottery. Large ceramic water pots are found in almost every village in Nepal, used for collecting, storing, and transporting water, as well as keeping it cool. Clay goods are also essential to many Hindu and Buddhist religious ceremonies, where small ceramic cups hold candles and butter lamps.

In Bhaktapur, ceramics are considered superior to those made elsewhere because they mostly use black clay called “Dyo Cha”, which is supple and elastic in nature and found only in one place. Only the Prajapatis of Bhaktapur are allowed to dig for it once a year. Digging for clay is a hard and risky job that sometimes results in cave-ins and loss of life.

Nepali handcraft shops offer a variety of ceramics for sale, including animal or deity figurines, bells, tea sets, mugs, cups, and decorative panels. One personal favorite is the owl candle stand, which is both cute and functional.

In Nepal, the process of creating metal statues begins with people showing photographs or pictures of existing sculptures or old thangkas, specifying the desired size and finish. Skilled craftsmen then create full-scale clay models based on the precise shape and proportions of the ancient figures.

Once the clay model is complete, a detailed mold of the statue is made out of wax. This is a challenging and time-consuming process that can take up to three months. The finished mold is covered with a layer of cow dung, mud, and rice husks, creating a mixture that can withstand intense heat.

Next, the mud-covered wax mold is placed into an oven, where the heat melts the wax out of the mud and dung covering, leaving a hollow mold. Molten metal is then poured into the same hole. Only a few people know the art of mixing the metal to achieve the best cast, and they travel from workshop to workshop around Kathmandu to offer their highly skilled profession.

After the metal has cooled, the mud and dung covering is removed, revealing a rough version of the metal statue. The next step is to hand over the forms to welders, who patch up any holes and attach the hands to the bodies. Creating the heads is a special art form, and on larger figures, they are often welded in place when most of the other work is complete.

The next stage involves the carvers, who refine the surfaces using thin steel tools and small hammers. They engrave details into the fine decoration, picking out beads and jewelry and carving traditional patterns on the clothing folds.

Finally, the figures are polished, buffed, and gilded, painted, and embellished with stones. The entire process of creating these sculptures takes several months to several years. Every step is done entirely by hand, showcasing Nepal’s fine metalworking tradition.