Spiritual Uses
Buddhist monks incorporated wind chimes into rituals early in their history. Asian temples, shrines and pagodas had many chimes hung from timbers. These chimes were thought to ward off evil, while attracting peaceful spirits. In modern times, the wind chime is found hung in doorways and windows to protect the home from bad luck and evil spirits.Weather Forecasting
Before modern meteorology and weather forcasting, wind chimes were an early warning system to detect changes in the air. Farmers and ship captains used wind chimes to detect changes in wind speed and direction, and the onset of potential storms.Agricultural Uses
Another use of wind chimes by farmers is to keep away birds and pests by the sudden sounding of the chimes. Fields of corn and rice have wind chimes scattered throughout to keep the crops from being eaten. Bali farmers use bamboo wind chimes.Decorative Uses
With the modern methods of precision tuning and materials, wind chimes have also taken on a decorative purpose. Today wind chimes are constructed from materials such as wood, metal, glass and ceramic. Wind chime manufacturers have found ways to develop precision-tuned musical chimes that ring in various pitches. Cultural chimes akin to Japanese, Hawaiian and Balinese can also be found.
History of the Wind Chime:
Wind chimes in some form or another have been used for thousands of years. There is archeological evidence that wind chimes have been around at least 3000BC. The early garden chimes were made from shells, bones, bamboo, stones and wood. It was believed that the sounds of the chimes would keep away the evil spirits and welcome the good spirits. Since their invention garden wind chimes have also had a very practical use. They have been used in agriculture to scare away the birds and small animals. Some farmers still use them for that purpose today.
Wind chimes originated in Asia. First in China then spreading to Japan. Buddhist monks used wind chimes or bell for religious rituals or ceremonies. The Chinese also practice feng shui, which literally means wind and water. They believe that incorporating feng shui elements in your environment will help to bring balance and harmony. The melodious sounds of wind chimes can relieve stress and help to drown out other loud, disturbing sounds of daily life. They can be healing and calming.
Modern wind chimes tend to have several different length rods, made from metal, like aluminum, although some artists like to work with copper. Because of the gentle sounds they make, bamboo chimes are also very popular. Today chimes are mainly used for decorative purposes or to create a harmonious environment to calm the weary soul.
Because of their visual and acoustical appeal, and their many practical uses wind chimes have stood the test of time and will continue to prove their worth for many years to come.
Treat yourself to some music for your garden, yard, porch or veranda, trailer or place of business.
