Gong Yoga: An Experiential Journey Through Movement and Sound

Gong Yoga: An Experiential Journey Through Movement and Sound

Gong Yoga is an integrative practice that combines the embodied awareness of vinyasa yoga with the therapeutic resonance of live gong sound.

This session, guided by yoga instructor Kerry Sullivan and sound healer Leslee Penny, offers participants a unique opportunity to explore how intentional movement and sound frequency can work in harmony to regulate the nervous system, balance subtle energy centers, and foster a deep state of inner coherence.

The practice begins with a vinyasa flow sequence designed to open the body’s primary energetic channels and stimulate circulation. As participants move through postures with mindful breath, the body becomes more receptive to the resonant vibrations that follow. The live gong immersion begins while the body is in a relaxed, open state, allowing the frequencies to move through the nervous system and cellular matrix with greater impact.

The gong is not simply an instrument it is a vibrational tool rooted in thousands of years of ceremonial use and now increasingly supported by research in psychoacoustics and integrative health. Scientific studies suggest that specific frequencies can promote parasympathetic activation, reduce cortisol levels, and even influence brainwave states associated with meditation and emotional regulation. When played with intention, the gong generates complex overtones that entrain the brain into theta and delta states frequencies linked to deep rest, insight, and the body's natural healing processes.

Within the framework of this session, the sound experience is also attuned to the chakra system a model of energy centers along the spine originating in yogic philosophy. As the body rests in restorative poses, the gong tones are modulated to correspond with key energy centers, helping to release stagnation, restore balance, and increase somatic awareness. While not a substitute for medical treatment, this sound-based approach has been explored in clinical settings for its potential to reduce anxiety, support trauma recovery, and enhance emotional resilience.

This immersive class is ideal for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how yoga and sound healing intersect. Whether you're new to energy work or looking to expand your current practice, Gong Yoga offers a powerful, research-informed way to experience the body and mind as a unified, vibrational field.

Advance registration is recommended, as space is limited.

About our Teachers:

Leslee Penny is a shamanic and mindful practitioner with decades of experience in holistic healing. With over 35 years of study in Eastern philosophy, she is certified in a wide range of healing modalities, including breathwork, meditation, hypnosis, life coaching, and sound healing. Leslee is also a certified “mindful practitioner” and holds certification in Singing Bowl Healing therapy. She frequently leads sound healing sessions also known as sound baths where she uses Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, and bells to create therapeutic vibrations. In these sessions, participants are invited to lie down or sit comfortably and immerse themselves in the healing tones, which are known to reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue while promoting deep relaxation, clarity, and a sense of spiritual well-being. The vibrations from these instruments are also believed to improve circulation and boost immune function. Leslee’s breathwork and meditation offerings further support emotional and physical wellness. Breathwork involves intentional, conscious breathing techniques that activate the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering the body’s natural relaxation response. Research shows that slow, deep breathing can lower stress hormones, reduce blood pressure, and promote a calm, balanced state of mind. Combined with her sound healing practices, Leslee’s approach to wellness offers a comprehensive and deeply restorative experience, helping participants release tension, restore inner harmony, and build resilience to everyday stress.

Kerry Sullivan

With 17 years of dance experience and over eight years of yoga teaching, Kerry brings a deep understanding of movement and energy work. She earned her 200-hour Yoga Alliance certification from Tula Yoga in 2015 and is Reiki II attuned, as well as an Advanced IET practitioner. In 2020, she expanded her expertise with birth and postpartum doula training through Healthy Women, Healthy Futures, studying with DONA teachers Debra Pascali-Bonaro and Amadoma Bediako. She also completed the Radical Birth Keeper School with the Free Birth Society.

Kerry’s mission is to guide students toward their divine potential, inner strength, and holistic healing through yoga, movement, and energy work.