Immersed in Sound: My Gong Intensive Weekend in Devon

Immersed in Sound: My Gong Intensive Weekend in Devon

During the second weekend of September, I had the joy of immersing myself in a Gong Intensive Workshop with the wonderful Sheila Whittaker, set against the peaceful backdrop of the Devon countryside.

From the moment I arrived, there was a sense of stillness and possibility in the air. Sheila held the space with a calm yet powerful presence, a blend of wisdom, gentleness, and grounded strength that comes from many years of working with the gong. It was an honour to learn from her, not only the practical techniques, but also the subtle ways in which sound can be used to guide, soothe, and heal.

Over the course of the weekend, our days were filled with learning and refining playing techniques, including exploring different tones, textures, and rhythms of the gong, deepening connection, not only with the instruments themselves, but with the energy and intention that flows through them, and community and sharing. I always enjoy gathering with fellow sound practitioners to exchange insights, hold space for one another, and celebrate our shared love of vibrational healing.

Outside of the workshop sessions, the magic of Devon itself added another layer of nourishment. Between shared meals and quiet moments in nature, I was reminded of how deeply restorative it is to step away from daily routines and immerse fully in both sound and silence. The stars without the light pollution of houses nearby were immense whilst I stayed in my little airbnb! A few unexpected encounters - a proud cockerel strutting along the roadside and a deer appearing on my drive, as well as a beautiful, what felt like, ancient woodland with the twisted bark and branches over the roadside. Stunning. All these encounters seemed to echo the wild beauty and playful spirit of the land.

As I reflect on the weekend, I feel immense gratitude: for the learning, for the connections made, and for the chance to be bathed in the resonance of the gongs. Experiences like this remind me why I continue to walk this path, because sound, in its purest form, holds such power to restore balance, open the heart, and bring us back to ourselves.

Click here to watch a reel from the weekend of all of the wonderful adventures and memories: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOoLkZ-jNVY/?igsh=MTg3ZGEybGd2YnBtaw==