Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct for the Sound Healing, Vibrational and Sonotherapy Association (SHVSA) outlines the expected behaviors and responsibilities for all schools, teachers, and students involved in the practice and teaching of sound and vibrational healing. This code serves as a guide to maintaining integrity, professionalism, and respect within the community and ensuring that the art of sound healing is passed on with honor and authenticity.
1. General Conduct
1.1 Respect for the Art and Practice
Preservation of Traditions: Honor and respect the ancient traditions and cultural roots of sound healing while integrating modern knowledge and techniques.
Authenticity: Practice and teach sound healing with authenticity, ensuring that techniques are used and passed on in their true form.
Continual Improvement: Commit to lifelong learning and self-improvement in the art of sound healing, remaining open to new insights and perspectives.
1.2 Integrity and Honesty
Truthful Representation: Represent your qualifications, experience, and capabilities honestly, without exaggeration or misleading claims.
Ethical Decision-Making: Make decisions based on the highest ethical standards, prioritizing the well-being and safety of clients, students, and the broader community.
Conflict of Interest: Disclose any potential conflicts of interest and avoid situations where personal interests could compromise professional judgment or actions.
1.3 Professionalism
Commitment to Excellence: Strive for excellence in all aspects of practice, teaching, and administration, setting a positive example for others in the field.
Punctuality and Reliability: Be punctual and reliable in all professional commitments, including appointments, classes, and communications.
Appropriate Conduct: Maintain a professional demeanor at all times, avoiding behavior that could be considered inappropriate, offensive, or harmful to others.
2.1 Educational Integrity
Accurate Curriculum: Ensure that the curriculum offered is comprehensive, accurate, and reflects the latest advancements in sound and vibrational healing.
Ethical Enrollment Practices: Provide clear and accurate information to prospective students about course content, prerequisites, costs, and certification requirements.
Inclusive Environment: Create a welcoming and inclusive learning environment that respects diversity and fosters a sense of community among students.
2.2 Fair Assessment
Objective Evaluation: Assess students' progress and competence objectively, using transparent criteria and fair methods of evaluation.
Supportive Feedback: Offer constructive feedback that supports students' growth and development, addressing both strengths and areas for improvement.
Certification Standards: Grant certifications only to those students who have demonstrated the required knowledge, skills, and ethical understanding.
2.3 Resource Management
Quality Materials: Provide high-quality teaching materials and resources that support students’ learning and practice.
Safe Facilities: Ensure that the physical space and equipment used for teaching and practice are safe, well-maintained, and conducive to learning and healing.
2. Schools: Responsibilities and Conduct
3.1 Commitment to Students
Student-Centered Teaching: Tailor your teaching approach to meet the individual needs of students, providing guidance and support to facilitate their learning journey.
Mentorship: Act as a mentor and role model, demonstrating the values and principles of sound healing in both personal and professional life.
Accessibility: Be available to students for questions, support, and guidance, ensuring that they feel supported throughout their educational experience.
3.2 Integrity in Teaching
Honesty in Instruction: Teach with honesty and transparency, ensuring that students receive accurate and reliable information.
Acknowledgment of Sources: Give proper credit to the original sources of techniques, knowledge, and traditions being taught, fostering a culture of respect for intellectual property.
Avoiding Exploitation: Never exploit the teacher-student relationship for personal gain, whether financial, emotional, or otherwise.
3.3 Continuing Education
Lifelong Learning: Commit to continuous professional development, staying informed about the latest research, techniques, and best practices in sound and vibrational healing.
Sharing Knowledge: Share knowledge and insights freely with the sound healing community, contributing to the collective growth and advancement of the field.
3. Teachers: Ethical Teaching and Practice
4. Students: Responsibilities and Ethical Learning
4.1 Respect for Teachers and Peers
Respectful Behavior: Show respect to teachers and fellow students, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
Active Participation: Engage actively in classes, practice sessions, and discussions, contributing to the collective learning experience.
Constructive Feedback: Offer feedback in a constructive and respectful manner, both to peers and instructors.
4.2 Commitment to Learning
Dedication to Study: Approach your studies with dedication, putting in the necessary time and effort to master the skills and knowledge being taught.
Ethical Practice: Practice sound healing techniques ethically and responsibly, always prioritizing the safety and well-being of those you work with.
Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from instructors when faced with challenges or uncertainties in your learning journey.
4.3 Professional Development
Strive for Excellence: Aim for excellence in your studies and practice, setting high standards for yourself and your work.
Continuing Education: Commit to continuing your education beyond the classroom, seeking out opportunities for further learning and professional growth.
Adherence to Standards: Understand and adhere to the standards and guidelines set forth by the SHVSA, recognizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the practice.
5. Commitment to Community and Collaboration
5.1 Building Community
Supportive Relationships: Foster supportive and collaborative relationships within the sound healing community, contributing to a positive and nurturing environment.
Community Engagement: Participate in community events, workshops, and other opportunities to share knowledge and build connections with fellow practitioners and students.
5.2 Collaboration with Other Modalities
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with practitioners from other healing modalities, recognizing the value of a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Respect for Other Practices: Show respect for other healing practices and modalities, avoiding negative comparisons or unfounded critiques.
5.3 Public Education
Raising Awareness: Engage in public education efforts to raise awareness about sound and vibrational healing, helping to spread accurate information and dispel misconceptions.
Ethical Outreach: Conduct outreach and community education efforts with integrity, ensuring that information is presented truthfully and without exaggeration.
6. Enforcement and Accountability
6.1 Accountability
Personal Responsibility: Each member of the SHVSA is personally responsible for adhering to this Code of Conduct and upholding the values and principles it represents.
Reporting Misconduct: Report any breaches of this Code of Conduct to the appropriate authorities within the SHVSA, ensuring that issues are addressed promptly and fairly.
Consequences for Violations: Understand that violations of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or revocation of membership, certification, or accreditation.
6.2 Continuous Review
Ongoing Evaluation: The Code of Conduct will be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in the field, legal requirements, and best practices.
Feedback and Suggestions: Members are encouraged to provide feedback and suggestions for improving the Code of Conduct, ensuring it remains relevant and effective.
The SHVSA Code of Conduct serves as a guiding framework for the behavior, responsibilities, and ethical commitments of all schools, teachers, and students involved in sound and vibrational healing. By adhering to these standards, we ensure the integrity, respect, and continued growth of this powerful healing art, passing it on to future generations with honor and dedication.
Help us preserve the integrity of sound healing. If you see any concerns or breaches of our Code of Conduct, please report them here and contribute to the safety and well-being of our community.
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Have Questions?
Email us at sound@shvsa.org
Important: Only authentic, handmade Tibetan singing bowls may be used in this curriculum. The use of crystal bowls, machine-made, or hand-hammered Tibetan bowls is strictly prohibited. Schools must be certified by the SHVSA to teach this curriculum, ensuring adherence to our high standards.
Media and Partnerships
Interested in collaborating or learning more about our work? Contact our media and partnerships team at sound@shvsa.org for opportunities and information.