Finding Harmony in Chaos: How One Woman’s Journey Sparked a Wellness Movement in South Pasadena

Meet Sherry Chen, founder of Sound Essence and Wellness, a community-based healing practice that’s quietly creating waves of calm throughout the Los Angeles area—one sound bath at a time.

Sherry’s journey didn’t begin in a studio or with a big business plan. It started during a deeply personal moment—navigating the emotional wreckage of a divorce, pandemic isolation, and co-parenting challenges. In the middle of that storm, she discovered the healing power of sound baths, an immersive meditative experience where sound frequencies from instruments like singing bowls, gongs, and flutes help to recalibrate the mind and body.

But for Sherry, it was more than a soothing ritual—it was a lifeline.

“I’ve always loved music. I used to play the Chinese zither in my 20s,” she shares. “The sound bath connected me to something deep in my heart. It brought me peace, clarity, and the desire to share that with others.”

That desire has blossomed into Sound Essence and Wellness—a grassroots effort to help people unplug from the chaos and reconnect with their inner peace. What started as a one-month test run in a local park turned into a thriving community practice. Since April, Sherry has been offering free sound bath sessions every Monday and Friday in a tree-lined park in South Pasadena. And the turnout keeps growing.

The sessions are open to everyone, donation-based, and powered by intention. No big studio. No marketing budget. Just authentic healing, heart-centered service, and the calming sounds of nature.

 

More Than Just Relaxation—This Is Energy Medicine

What makes Sherry’s practice unique is its simplicity and accessibility. Unlike larger sound bath businesses confined to indoor studios, Sherry’s sessions take place outdoors—under trees, in open air, in connection with the Earth. It’s this blend of nature and sound that makes her events feel magical.

“Sometimes, I feel like I’m not just playing for the people, but for the Earth itself,” she says. “There’s a divine energy that brings us all together.”

Participants often describe her sessions as “a reset,” “the best therapy of the week,” and even “life-changing.” One woman came for the calm and left with the courage to apply for—and land—a job she had long been hesitating to pursue.

Stories like that are why Sherry keeps going.

 

A Mission Rooted in Healing

With a background in integrative nutrition and health coaching, Sherry combines her understanding of physical wellness with the mental and spiritual benefits of sound therapy. Her mission is clear: to help people de-stress, heal, and reconnect to themselves—especially during times of emotional or environmental unrest.

Her typical clients? Mostly women ages 40 and up, including seniors, moms, and individuals navigating midlife transitions. But her message is for everyone: mental health is physical health, and healing starts from within.

 

Vision for the Future

Though Sound Essence and Wellness is still in its grassroots stage, Sherry dreams big. Within five years, she hopes to open her own space—partly indoors, partly outdoors—where she can host larger gatherings, collaborate with other wellness practitioners, and provide premium experiences for those seeking deeper transformation.

Until then, you’ll find her at the park, weather permitting, setting up mats, bowls, and good vibes—inviting anyone and everyone to slow down, breathe deep, and listen.

 

Learn More & Get Involved

📍 Based in South Pasadena, CA
🌐 Website: SoundEssenceandWellness.com
📲 Follow on Facebook & Instagram
🧘‍♀️ Events on Eventbrite | Donations Welcome

Email: soundprojecthealing@gmail.com

Phone: 206-476-6356