Students float in the pool at the Joseph L. Alioto Recreation Center as part of a Sound Healing Bath in 2025

Serene moment: Students float peacefully on air mattresses, wrapped in blankets under the evening sun. / Photo by Rebecca Harper

Floating Sound Healing Bath

A Serene Wellness Experience at the Joseph L. Alioto Recreation Center

by Mariel Littorno, Assistant Director of Campus Recreation | May 16, 2025

With the spring semester wrapping up and the intensity of finals on the horizon, the Joseph L. Alioto Recreation Center at Saint Mary's hosted a transformative wellness event: the Floating Sound Healing Bath. This unique experience blended the soothing elements of water with the healing power of sound bowls, offering participants a serene environment for stress relief and mindfulness.

As Simona Bronshteyn ’28 summed up the experience: “As someone who experiences anxiety and stress regularly, I felt reborn!”

“As someone who experiences anxiety and stress regularly, I felt reborn!”
—Simona Bronshteyn ‘28

A Harmonious Blend of Water and Sound

The event took place on Wednesday, May 7, in the center's pool area, where students had the option to float on provided pool floats or relax by the water's edge. As they settled into their chosen spots, they were immersed in the calming vibrations of crystal bowls played by Maria Odense. The session was designed to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit, promoting deep relaxation and emotional release.

Sound Healing Bowls — Maria Odense, a sound healing practitioner and yoga instructor, plays crystal and metal singing bowls poolside, creating calming vibrations to guide participants into deep relaxation. / *Photo by Rebecca Harper*

The Floating Sound Healing Bath was open to all members of the Saint Mary's community, regardless of prior experience with sound healing or meditation practices. No swimming skills were required, and all necessary equipment was provided, ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for everyone.

A Commitment to Wellness

This event was part of a broader initiative by Saint Mary's College to promote wellness and self-care among its community members. Funded by the Student Enhancement Fee, the Floating Sound Healing Bath was one of several wellness events organized by Campus Recreation and Student Life throughout the spring semester. Other events included Poolside Pilates and the LoveWell self-care celebration.

Floating Student — Bathed in sunlight and serenity, **Taylor Merrit ‘27** floats on an air mattress during a sound healing session, eyes closed and wrapped in warmth, fully immersed in the calming experience. / *Photo by Rebecca Harper*

Looking Ahead

The success of the Floating Sound Healing Bath underscores the growing interest in holistic wellness practices within the Saint Mary's community. As Campus Recreation continues to explore innovative ways to support student well-being, events like these provide valuable opportunities for relaxation, self-discovery, and connection.