Far from the hustle and bustle of Paris, in the heart of the 20th arrondissement, Zen and Sounds welcomes you for an hour of letting go, lulled by the sound of gongs that take us into another universe. Opened in October 2018 by Swann and Ely, this center entirely dedicated to relaxation through sound and sound therapy is well hidden, in its soothing little Zen cocoon, where you have to take your shoes off as soon as you enter.
If you're unfamiliar with the concept of gong bathing, it's an ancient practice originating in Asia, designed to induce deep relaxation of body and mind through sound vibrations. These vibrations pass through the body, which is made up mainly of water, and act on the cells to promote biological, energetic and emotional balance and the circulation of energy. We had the opportunity to take part in a collective session, orchestrated by the luminous Léa.
And the venue is impressive, for far from a simple Tibetan bowl, the room where the sessions take place is filled with 17 gongs of different sizes and appearances, a veritable wall of these unusual instruments, surrounded by singing bowls, rain trees and chimes, a unique installation.
After making ourselves comfortable in the changing rooms and taking a curious look at the instruments on sale if we want to reproduce the sound bath at home, we pour ourselves a small infusion of hibiscus, homemade that very morning.
We then enter the famous gong room, where telephones are forbidden, so that nothing can disturb the peace and quiet of the place during the session. We lie down comfortably on small mattresses (of which there are many, as the facility can accommodate several dozen people), borrowing a small blanket, ready to let ourselves be carried away by relaxation or sleep!
After explaining the purpose of each instrument, from symphonic and planetary gongs to crystal flutes and bowls, our sonotherapist of the day begins to operate them like an orchestra conductor, creating a unique melody far removed from the sounds we're used to hearing, which plunges us into another space-time.
Even if you're not normally receptive to meditation and similar activities, the gong bath should appeal to you, as all you have to do is let yourself be carried away by the waves and frequencies. We almost fell asleep, the symphony allowing us to let go of our minds and their problems, ideal for tackling the rest of the day, or for evacuating the overflow of a difficult week.
Everyone reacts differently, but on our side, the vibrations brought shivers of fulfillment and a real sense of disconnection. Even the seasonal coughs and noises in the vicinity didn't get the better of this complete relaxation of body and mind.
Some of the gongs in particular took our breath away, with their strange sounds, as if coming from the center of the Earth, powerful and raw, that seem to vibrate the being, or that whale-like noise. As for the rain tree, it makes you feel as if you're wrapped up warm in a blanket, hearing a downpour outside, sheltered by the fire.
We come to our senses and emerge from this hour and a quarter filled with well-being, weightless, like a little rebirth that restores our energy and good humor.
Sound massages, 7-chakra meditations with live music, mantra choirs, therapeutic singing and other workshops are also available, especially for individuals. Whether you're curious or just love this world of relaxation, the collective gong bath is an accessible way to discover sonotherapy! Please note thatsonotherapy is not suitable for people with epilepsy, heart problems or pregnant women.
This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please let us know.
Dates and Opening Time
Starts December 18, 2025
Location
Zen and Sounds
88 Boulevard de Charonne
75020 Paris 20
Prices
€32
Official website
www.zen-and-sounds.com
