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Indian Classical Music has been known since ancient times for its extraordinary potential as a therapeutic aid for providing relief in certain ailments of the body and the mind. The soulful, rhythmic tunes of classical Ragas has an endless positive impact on the brain, heart, nervous system, blood circulation, metabolism and the ability to control the state of mind. Music therapy through Indian Classical Music is no recent development; it has been in practice as alternative or complementary to curative therapy for ages. In present times, extensive research is being conducted to establish the scientific ground behind the power of music to alleviate different physiological disorders.
Indian classical music manifested through the framework of different Raga (Raag or Ragam ) has proven to be beneficial in a number of diseases ranging from a simple headache to even cancer. The conditions in which classical music has been found to reduce discomfort and alleviate symptoms are Hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, migraine, arthritis, cardiac ailments, asthma, fever, cold and cough, allergic reactions, chronic pain, insomnia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and many others. Classical music also aids patients with neurological disorders like epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease or behavioral disorders like Schizophrenia, anxiety, autism --- to nurture a better approach for a fulfilling, healthier life.
To talk in more details, ancient Indian classical music follows the pattern of Sapta Swara (7 notes) which are each distinct in all aspects thereby impacting different parts of the body and brain when they are sung or heard. The mellifluous melodies created by harmonious confluence of these seven “swara” give rise to the Ragas which build the foundation of Indian Classical music.
The Raga Research Institute in Chennai is now conducting a comprehensive study of different Indian Ragas and their therapeutic potential with a team of competent musicians, doctors and psychiatrists to discover the exact pathway of influence of music on the body for alleviation of diseases.
So far it is known that classical music stimulates the main action centre of the brain, the pituitary gland whose secretions have impact on the nervous system.
The vibrations from instrumental music vibrate the body cells and thus improves blood circulation and bone health.
Singing or listening to classical music for a prolonged time relaxes and refreshes the mind and body, reducing negative emotions. Soft, soulful music enhances positive emotions and energizes the body for renewed spirit of life.
Though music therapy varies in a drastic manner from person to person owing to individual tastes, choices and physical conditions (For example, a patient of high blood pressure cannot be exposed to any upbeat music as it will worsen his or her condition), it can be concluded that music therapy maintains emotional, physiological and psychological balance and provides a wholesome relief.
| DISEASE | HOW CLASSICAL MUSIC HELPS | MOST HELPFUL RAGAS |
| Hypertension |
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| Diabetes |
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| Migraine |
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| Arthritis |
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| Fever |
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| Asthma |
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| Stress & Insomnia |
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| Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s |
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| Post-Stroke Recovery & Paraplegia |
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| Cancer |
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10 AMAZING INSTRUMENTS OF INDIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC THERAPY
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TanpuraThe intense drone of this instrument sets the prelude for the start of a Raga, in resonance with the tonal pitch of the singer. Tanpura sound has been found to be effective in providing an effect of peace and calm in cancer patients |
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SitarThe sonorous music from the Sitar generates an ambiance of meditation which relaxes the mind and the body. Especially helpful for stress reduction and pain relief in migraine |
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SarodThe natural notes of the Sarod create a positive impact on the brain increasing the secretion of serotonin (happiness hormone). Also helps in promoting concentration and focus during post stroke recovery |
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FluteThe soprano instrument touches the high octaves. It improves blood circulation and helps to maintain steady blood pressure in patients of hypotension (low blood pressure) |
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VeenaThe soprano instrument touches the high octaves. It improves blood circulation and helps to maintain steady blood pressure in patients of hypotension (low blood pressure) |
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TablaThe powerful beats of the Tabla produce accelerated brain waves which help patients with Arthritis or other mobility limitations to respond to the rhythm with their body parts. Also helps in reducing risk of cardiac problems |
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SarangiThis is said to be one of the best suitable instruments to accompany Classical vocals. It has a relaxing effect and relieves stress, anxiety, headache. Also lowers blood pressure by slowing down faster heart rate |
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ShehnaiThis wind instrument is known to promote better energy levels and improving body metabolism and bone health on prolonged listening |
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SantoorThe soothing soft melody of Santoor relaxes anxiety. It has a calming effect on brain and nervous system that reduce Tachycardia (accelerated heart rate) and high blood pressure |
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JaltarangThe soulful tune of this water instrument creates a diversion for the brain from the pain signals, thus providing pain relief in arthritis or migraine |
Music can help us lead a better and healthier life. Indian Classical Music as a medium for music therapy is one of the most popular complementary therapy nowadays. With Indian Classical Music gaining international popularity steadily, its therapeutic potential is also reaching and benefitting many around the world.
By Sayantani Nath
Guest Author and Student of Biology
Bibliography
Raga Therapy, Raga Music Therapy | Music Therapy For Wellness, Anuradha Mahesh | Music (raga) and its Therapeutic Effect, Ayurveda For You
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Ashok Anant Khare
June 13, 2018
I am very much impressed after reading this article on music therapy.