Mel's Blog: Experience the power of sound!

By Jordan Meates • 11 February 2025

I can’t quite believe that ASRA 2025 is just round the corner and as always, I am really excited because it is one of the highlights of my year. Eons ago, I used to attend as a delegate but since 2017 I have had the privilege of attending as a speaker.

Mel Loizou

Director, Dive Deep Climb High

Over that time, I have seen the conference go from strength to strength. My focus has always been on people and why we do what we do. When I left the University sector and set up on my own, my intention was to work with individuals and teams, helping them to be the best they can. And for me to do this work, I need to be the best that I can, which means my own development journey never stops.

The ASRA team has always encouraged me to share what I have been learning with their delegates, which is why over the past couple of years my sessions have explored personal leadership from a holistic perspective – connecting mind, body and spirit. 

This year I am thrilled to be running two sessions: the first on Monday afternoon and the second on Tuesday morning. Both will include a sound therapy session but what is sound therapy?

It is an ancient form of healing that takes people on a voyage of self-discovery. Since qualifying in 2022, I have been blown away by its power and what can happen both personally and professionally when people allow themselves to lie down and be curious as to how the sound waves could help them.

As a very minimum, sound therapy gives people some much needed time to themselves, to relax and let go. For many though, the benefits are far greater – it helps bring us back into balance, enabling us to let go of unhelpful thoughts and behaviours whilst also creating clarity and focus enabling people to do things they never thought possible. 

And one of the best things I have found is that people don’t have to talk about what’s going on for them. Now I am not saying that wouldn’t help but if you are working through something that you don’t feel able to talk about then you don’t have to.

If you’ve never experienced sound therapy, I would urge you to give it a go. Being open and curious is one way to approach the session.  The other is to come with a specific intention (don’t worry you won’t have to share it or say it out loud) just know that this is something you would like help with.  As you start to make yourself comfortable, silently remind yourself of your intention and then let it go. 

Of course, you don’t have to take my word for it – you can come experience the power of sound for yourself at the conference! To make the most of it bring something to lay on (a yoga mat would be ideal) plus a pillow/cushion and a blanket.  Last year some people came in  their dressing gowns – the name of the game is to be comfortable and warm. 😀

I look forward to seeing you soon x

A big 'thank you' to Mel for sharing her views and opinions with ASRA!

To hear more from industry experts like Mel and experience the power of sound for yourself, make sure you join us at De Vere Cotswold Water Park, Cirencester, 6th - 9th April for the ASRA Conference 2025 - book your place here!