Wind chimes have a long rich history that spans through many centuries, cultures and continents. They are believed to be one of the first musical instruments created by man, and their soothing, hypnotic tones are instantly recognized throughout the world.
The wind chimes expansive lineage dates back to prehistoric times. Archeologists in Asia have unearthed ancient wind chimes dating back to 3000 B.C. Many of these ancient wind chimes were made from stones, shells, wood, bamboo and even bone. Historians believe primitive cultures would hang wind chimes in the forest to frighten off evil spirits and enemies. Wind chimes were also placed closer to homes and villages to attract benevolent spirits. Farmers would use them to scare off birds and animals from their fields.
Wind chimes were also used to predict the weather. Savvy farmers and sailors could make short-range forecasts based on their knowledge of the local weather conditions and by observing the wind speed and direction that the wind chime(s) blew in. Intense chiming could predict bad storms and typhoons.
The ancient Egyptians were the first to use metal in the construction of wind chimes. They began making them in bronze in 2000 B.C. By 1100 B.C. the Chinese who had already mastered casting metal bells, would begin making wind chimes using these same bell metals. The end result produced wind chimes similar to those of today.
The 1800’s brought Asian philosophy, art and design influences to the European and American shores, and with it came the ancient practice of Feng Shui, which introduced the wind chime. According to Feng Shui practice, a wind chime has the ability to influence Chi (life energy) and remove negative energies that may be causing problems in ones environment.
Today’s wind chimes are manufactured out of several different types of materials including: pottery, wood, several different types of metal, plastic, glass, shells and bamboo. The sound and tone produced by a wind chime is governed by the type of material used to construct it. The loudest and most resonating wind chimes are those made from aluminum.
Bamboo wind chimes are among the oldest wind chimes known to man. They have an elegant earthy tone that resonates deep into the heart and soul. Bamboo wind chimes add a natural beauty to their surroundings and can be used indoors and out.
Wind chimes are also very eco-friendly. During the manufacturing process almost no by-products are produced and there is very little waste, as most wind chime manufactures produce several different designs and sizes. Meticulous machining techniques used to produce aluminum and other metal wind chimes also decreases waste. The waste that is produced is then recycled into manufacturing more wind chimes.
It has also been reported that the vibration and resonance produced by wind chimes can calm the body and reduce stress, anger and tension. Wind chimes can have a profound effect on the body, mind and spirit by fostering inner peace and healing. They enhance positive Chi and bring harmony, balance and well being.
New Age shops carry wind chimes that incorporate symbolism into the wind chimes design. These added symbols are said to infuse the wind chime with the attributes and energies of the symbol, making them more powerful.
Let the ancient soothing sounds of a wind chime fill your space with harmony, love and wellbeing.
The sound of chimes remind me of summer nights as a kid. There is something very soothing about hearing wind chimes bang together when a nice cool breeze flies through them. I hope that I can find some just like the one’s I had when I was kid and use them to help my kids create happy memories.
It’s good to know that wind chimes can help reduce stress in us, as you mentioned. They do produce very soothing sounds to listen to as you are outside with a small breeze. I think they also add a peaceful aspect to your home that makes you associate more peace and relaxation with home.
It was amazing how you said that bamboos chimes are not only elegant looking and beautiful, they also have an elegant and earthly sound that resonates with the heart. My mom has been interested in a zen garden kind of backyard for a while now. Of course, a zen garden will not be complete without a bamboo item of some sort. I will start looking for something like this to add to the decor and tranquil look.
I never knew that wind chimes are also used to predict the weather. What I am really after these hanging wind chimes are its soothing effect or ambiance. I also like how you mentioned that bamboo wind chimes have a natural beauty and positive effect on our surroundings.