Conversations with Crystal Cao

Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Cao.

Hi Crystal, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I read a quote that stuck with me, “Artists to my mind are the real architects of change, and not the political legislators who implement change after the fact.” – William S. Burroughs.

For me, becoming a full-time Sound Therapist and Yoga Teacher was and always will be a revolutionary act. Rest and refuge can shift a lot in a person. My journey began when I was laid off of my event production job during the height of the pandemic. I had been a yogi for most go my life but had never had the privileged of indulging in so much time with myself. I invested my resources back into growing my collection and expressing my positive voice over the internet in hopes that my art and efforts would offset the imbalances and uncertainty during Covid/BLM. The timing was kismet. People gravitated toward my wellness events.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
So far, yes it has been a smooth road because I have prepared my mind to believe so. There’s a certain level of understanding that I have to maintain in knowing that every road is the one I am meant to be on, even if at times they make me uncomfortable at times. When I remember this, situations and opportunities begin to fall into place for me. It’s a very humbling, slow, and gentle approach to manifesting/vibrating/behaving with the confidence that I will get what I want. The struggles perhaps would be the physical labor involved with traveling, setting up, and breaking down my events. Not having a steady schedule, but I like it this way. I am an artist so time in between is a life well spent to be even more creative. I have a wonderful partner who supports me and steps in when I need a hand. We just got married in November. I would imagine he struggles to share me with everyone else LOL.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I facilitate sound bath meditations for public and private gatherings. It’s sort of like an immersive relaxation concert that wakes the senses and soothes the mind. I play an array of healing instruments as I guide, with my voice, a visual journey. No one session is alike. I choose a different theme for every sound bath. Imagine the smell of sage burning and lights flicker all around as you cozy up with a blanket. It is science and energy work. These specific instruments take the brain from the Beta to the Theta state. After a few minutes, it feels as though one is awake but sleeping; similar to that sweet spot of nodding off. Some completely fall asleep and snore. Others are fully energized, ready to take on the day or personal projects. The goal is to regulate the parasympathetic nervous system and work through some stuck energy or emotions. It’s poetry. I am best known for hosting these group sound baths at various cool locations. All my years in event production have supported me in producing enticing experiences that people want to be a part of. I am always proud of the people that show up to these things. Most are strangers but we all speak the same language. There’s a strong community of good humans in these spaces and that gives me hope in humanity. I believe what has set me apart from anyone else doing this is my individuality. The way I look, my background, the way I dress myself up or show up unapologetically. It’s a liberating movement.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
YES, I have tons of advice because I also had a lot of questions in which I sought the answers. I now train and certify people interested in doing what I do. People that come to me who see themselves as healers and space holders. I believe there is a certain formula to success, and for some reason, the one I operate at is working for me. It is possible to have it spiritual and material wealth. So long as you move with the sincerity of a humble heart and non-attachment. What I wish I knew when I was first starting out was how to move my money intelligently. Start small. Develop your inner monologue and poetry. Don’t blow your money on all the equipment right away. People are coming to be touched by your words. The music is a bonus.

Pricing:

• My offerings start at $300 minimum + Travel fees
• I do offer sliding scales for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ family
• I do a free/donation base offering every month

Contact Info:

• Website: www.crystalhealingsound.com
• Instagram: @Crystal.HealingSound

Image Credits
Melina Drake