Healing with music therapy : Dr. Rajesh K Chauhan

 

Healing with music therapy

Dr. Rajesh K Chauhan

When the first rays of dawn touch the earth and the sweet chirping of birds fill the air, an invisible and constant melody rises in the world—gentle, effortless, and uninterrupted. Whether joyful or sorrowful, the gentle cry of a baby or the innocent laughter of an old man, every sound speaks volumes. The Vedic line "Nado Vai Brahma" points to the truth that the entire universe is a reflection of infinite forms of sound. When this sound is transformed into number, tone, and rhythm, we call it music. Music is not merely a means of grace and beauty; it is also a healing, a spiritual practice, and a life-giving energy. Science has also recognized this. I believe that music should be presented not merely for entertainment, but as a vibrant and natural form of healing—a form that contributes uniquely to the holistic balance of body, mind, and spirit.

The intensity and complexity of human life today have polluted its inner streams. In this fast-paced world, human attention has become fragmented like fibers. Simultaneously, stress, depression, insomnia, heart disease, high blood pressure, and numerous mental illnesses have become commonplace in our lives. Traditional medical treatments for these disorders may help, but often fail to reach the narrow recesses of the conscience. In such moments, music appears like a silent healer—selfless, accessible, and without any side effects. It is the power that, without touch, without the need to swallow pills, penetrates the body and creates subtle coordination between pulse, blood flow, and brain waves. This is why many prestigious hospitals and rehabilitation centers around the world have incorporated music therapy into their treatment regimens and have seen its tangible results.

The therapeutic effects of music have never been solely based on faith; numerous scientific and experimental evidence supports this. Modern neuroscience has proven that listening to music activates parts of the brain that control emotions, memory, attention, and physical activity. Listening to music increases the release of chemicals like dopamine and endorphins, which act as emotional stimulants and pain relievers. Furthermore, music stabilizes the heart rate, regulates blood pressure, and coordinates the respiratory system. Clinical experiments have also shown that playing slow, melodic music after surgery reduces pain perception and speeds recovery. Music-based programs for children have shown positive changes in communication and social behavior in children with language disorders and autism. The impact of music on elderly memory loss patients has often helped them recover lost memories. This factual evidence clearly demonstrates that music is not just an emotional outpouring but also a scientifically defined therapeutic method.

The therapeutic use of music has been prevalent in Indian culture for centuries. The scriptures provide a detailed framework of cultural rules regarding the timing, pitch, and rhythm of ragas. Our sages and music teachers realized that certain notes and rhythms have a special impact on human emotions. This experience gave rise to a rich tradition of ragas and raginis that even today evoke essential emotions in the hearts of listeners. The seriousness of Bhairava, the profound indifference of Darbari, the coolness of Yaman, the powerful compassion of Bageshri—these qualities are not only aesthetically pleasing; they are also excellent for establishing balance on a psychological and physical level. The subtle fluctuations of ragas not only influence emotions but also regulate the body's resonance system.

In this context, the language of both ancient texts and modern research resonates. According to Ayurvedic principles, imbalances in the body's three doshas—vata, pitta, and kapha—cause disease. The various tones and rhythms of music are believed to regulate these doshas. This is where the tradition of "ragopachar" originates—selecting ragas based on the disease, practicing them in accordance with the time, and practicing nasal exercises serve as a means of strengthening the human body. Researchers have also conducted numerous experiments on the effects of music on plants, demonstrating a clear increase in plant growth rate, fruiting, and flowering duration. These experiments have validated the evolutionary potential of sound waves and raised the question: if music's effect on plants is so direct, what impact would it have on the highly sensitive human body? Modern science's answer is clear—the biological effects of music on humans are even more dynamic and multifaceted.

Music plays a vital role in our daily lives, not only as a source of joy, but also as a useful instrument. Practice is a form of physical exercise; vocal practice increases lung capacity, strengthens the respiratory system, and improves immunity by improving the structure of the throat. Adjusting the rhythm of breathing in the throat not only improves oxygen exchange but also establishes peace and balance in the mental centers. Singing, playing instruments, and dancing—all of these foster collective consciousness within the human community, enhancing social harmony and emotional empathy. This is why music plays an essential role in births, weddings, funerals, and festivals across cultures—because music has nourished human emotional and collective life for centuries.

The impact of music on mental health, in particular, is remarkable. Today, depression, anxiety disorders, aging-related mental deterioration, and war-induced psychological trauma are among the health concerns of many countries. Music therapy offers a simple and effective solution to these problems, one that has been embraced by large groups of patients. Continuous listening to a soothing raga or melodious musical sequence, guided playing, and group singing can transform a patient's emotional state. Music not only elevates a patient's sensitivity but also instills in them a sense of intimacy, trust, and purpose in life. People who have lost self-interest and self-confidence experience a sense of resurgence through music. As a result, they move forward with renewed hope for life, instead of relying solely on medication.

We realize that the impact of music isn't limited to humans; it also affects animals and plants. History describes numerous incidents—calming elephants and lions with the help of ragas, summoning a speechless deer, and Tansen's use of Raga Megh Malhar to induce rain—all of which bear testimony to the recognition of the power of music since ancient times. Scientifically, it has also been proven that sound waves influence the dynamics of plant protoplasm and the activity of chloroplasts, improving photosynthesis and growth. Experiments conducted by the Department of Arboriculture at Annamalai University and several other institutions show that plants exposed to music have a greater number of flowers and fruits and a comparatively longer lifespan. Therefore, the argument that music is only for humans is fallacious—music is Savitri, it touches the entire biosphere.

From small social experiments to clinical research, music has produced remarkable results in many forms. Music-based instruction for primary school children has been shown to enhance their memory, attention, and creativity. Regular music sessions in nursing homes have increased the elderly's sense of belonging and will to live, reduced loneliness, and enhanced social participation. Playing music in hospital operating theaters has been shown to reduce preoperative anxiety and improve pain tolerance. The use of music in cardiology has positively impacted heart health, regulating blood pressure, and reducing medication dependence. Regular rhythm-based exercises and music therapy for autistic children have improved their language and social communication skills. The essence of all these experiences is that music not only awakens empathy but also directly contributes to life performance and health improvement.

When the Indian tradition of music therapy meets modern research, new possibilities open up. Ayurveda has documented the effects of sound. The Samaveda directly describes the use of chanting and ragas. Ancient music scholars have established a connection between vocal movements and specific body parts and chakras. Yoga philosophy also offers the principle of chakra balancing through swaras. Combining these ancient wisdoms with contemporary scientific methods can deepen and broaden the scope and impact of music therapy. Using modern technology, the vibrations, frequencies, and effects of ragas can be measured using measuring instruments. By integrating these into clinical parameters, tailored music sessions can be designed to suit the individual's condition. An integrated music therapy program can incorporate physical exercises, breathing exercises, guided listening, active singing, and group devotion—such a program will not only address patients' physical problems but also address their emotional and social needs.

Nevertheless, it is important to recognize that music therapy is not a blind ritual. It is not merely a matter of faith; it is a practical and systematic treatment. Its implementation requires the coordination of trained music therapists, psychologists, and clinical staff. The notion that simply broadcasting melodies or melodious music will cure everything is impractical. However, when music is employed according to scientific standards and specific to the disease, its benefits are clear and long-lasting. Therefore, music therapy courses have been established in many universities around the world, and clinical practice is supervised by trained medical musicians.

The impact of music is profound in the spiritual dimension as well. When a person immerses himself in devotion to Raga, not only does his mental fatigue diminish but he also moves towards spiritual progress—feelings of compassion, forgiveness, and service naturally arise within him. Music has provided spiritual experiences to sages, saints, poets, and philosophers for centuries. Bhajans, kirtans, and musical practices have sown the seeds of morality and empathy in society. A person who regularly engages in health-enhancing music not only remains physically healthy but also becomes socially empathetic, loving, and sensitive towards others. Music has provided a strong foundation for humanity, making collective balance and mental harmony possible in society.

Ultimately, it's essential to understand that music isn't just something to listen to, but a way of life. When a melodious melody reaches our ears in the stillness of the night, we spontaneously embrace both the tears and the laughter within us. This is the power of music—it reveals beauty in pain and profoundness in joy. Music's role in mending broken parts of life, reawakening lost parts of the mind, and illuminating the darkness of the soul is incomparable. If everyone dedicates some time each day to music—a raga in the cool morning hours, a bhajan in the relaxed evening hours—this practice of just fifteen to twenty minutes can create remarkable changes in one's overall health and balance.

I conclude this article with a sentiment that expresses my deep reverence and faith in music. Music is not just mere waves, rhythms, and notes; it is a precious source of life that connects us to our soul. The experience of music is more effective than medicine because it nourishes both mind and body without any negative effects. Therefore, in today's modern age, when despite having every comfort and luxury, humans appear spiritually exhausted, music is the only means that can quench the inner thirst and give life new meaning. In life's difficult moments, music comes as our companion—it brings silence, softens the hardness of the heart, and ultimately provides a new direction. Music therapy is not just a science; it is a religion—for the service of humanity, for love and compassion, and for the purification of the soul.

Fundamentals of Indian Raga Therapy

Raga therapy is an ancient method of Indian musical science, used not only for entertainment but also for the health of the body, mind, and consciousness. It is based on three main principles—swara chakra, bhaav-rasa resonance, and time theory.

The seven basic notes of Indian classical music—Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni—are associated with the seven major chakras of the human body. Specific combinations of notes in ragas activate the corresponding chakras and balance mental and physical energy. For example, Bhairavi raga activates the Muladhara chakra and reduces stress and fear. Modern research shows that raga listening has a positive effect on heart rate, blood pressure, and stress hormones.

Ragas are not merely sequences of notes but expressions of emotions and mental states. Yaman evokes peace and hope, Bihag evokes devotion and joy, and Malkauns evokes fear and pain. Listening to ragas improves mental well-being and has positive effects on the cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems.

Each raga has a greater effect at a particular time. Pratah Bhairav ​​and Bhatiyar promote mental clarity, midday ragas like Shuddha Sarang and Bheempalasi bring energy, evening Yaman and Vihag provide emotional peace, and night Malkauns provide deep relaxation. Listening to ragas at the right time helps in maintaining harmony with the body, sleep, blood pressure, and mental energy. Listening to ragas reduces stress and depression, controls blood pressure, is beneficial for insomnia, improves memory and concentration, and provides emotional peace.

Raga therapy is a vibrant blend of science and art. It brings balance to the body and mind through tone, emotion, time, and cycle. Modern research and traditional experience show that listening to, singing, or playing ragas is extremely beneficial for mental and physical health. It should be adopted as an adjunct to treatment, not a substitute for mainstream medicine.

Some Ragas useful in the treatment of diseases

Raga Bhupali

Brings happiness to the mind, reduces anxiety and increases the ability to concentrate.

Raga Mohanam

It is considered to relieve headaches and migraines; it lightens and calms the mind.

Raga Khamaj

Helpful in reducing psychological stress and maintaining emotional balance.

Megh-Malhar and Miyan Malhar

Traditionally considered useful in heat, fatigue, asthma and respiratory problems and provides coolness to the body.

Raga Multani

It is considered helpful in reducing eye fatigue, mental stress and tension in the evening.

Raga Mishra Mand (Mand)

Lightens and calms the mind. Reduces anxiety.

raga shivaranjani

It is believed to provide relief from depression, emotional pain and anxiety.

Raga Bhairavi (group)

Extremely useful in deep anxiety, insomnia, stress, emotional instability and gives peace by stabilizing the mind.

Raga Ahir Bhairava

Excellent for lowering high blood pressure, bringing mental balance and clarity in the morning.

Raga Pooriya Dhanashree

Helps in reducing blood pressure, reducing irritability and improving concentration.

Raga Chandrakauns

Provides deep mental peace and relaxation; useful in reducing heart anxiety.

Raga Madhyamvati

It is considered useful in nervous system related disorders, stress and mental imbalance.

Raga Charukeshi

It helps in keeping the mind calm, happy and balanced.

Raga Hansdhwani

It improves memory, improves concentration and awakens positive emotions.

South Indian form of Raga Kalyani/Yaman

Considered beneficial for heart health, mental balance and inner peace.

Raga Mayamalavaguda

Used in meditation and chakra sadhana; helps in mental stability and nerve balance.

Raga Nat Bhairava

Traditional use is cited for digestive problems and stomach upset.

Raga Patdeep

Improves digestion, balances internal body heat.

Raga Bheempalasi

Helpful in reducing excessive anxiety, nervousness and mental stress.

Music therapy in India

The field of music therapy is rapidly growing in India, and numerous institutions, organizations, and hospitals across the country are promoting it as an effective tool for health and mental balance. At the national level, organizations such as the Indian Association of Music Therapy, the Music Therapy Education and Research Center, and the Indian Music Therapy Association are actively working. These organizations disseminate the principles of music therapy, encourage research, and conduct certified courses and workshops to prepare trained therapists. Similarly, the Naad Centre and the T.V. Sairam Foundation are among the most important centers of music therapy awareness and scientific research in India. These organizations have long been conducting research, seminars, and organizing international events on music-based therapy.

The Music Cognition Lab at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, is also playing a key role in strengthening the scientific understanding of music therapy in the country. Extensive research is conducted here on the relationship between music and the brain, stress management, neurological disorders, and the impact of music on mental health. This research is also being used in treatment and rehabilitation programs.

Music therapy is not limited to research and training but has been incorporated as a therapeutic practice in many leading hospitals. Music therapy is used as part of rehabilitation and mental health services at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Mumbai, Jehangir Hospital Pune, and Sakra World Hospital Bengaluru. Furthermore, leading cancer hospitals in the country, such as Apollo Hospitals Group and Tata Memorial Hospital Mumbai, are also incorporating music therapy into cancer patients' treatment for pain management, stress reduction, insomnia, and emotional balance. Many other palliative care and cancer centers are also contributing to improving patients' quality of life by using music-based interventions.

Overall, music therapy has become an emerging yet highly effective treatment option in India. Its use is increasing in areas such as mental stress, depression, insomnia, pain relief, child development, memory problems in the elderly, and emotional support during cancer treatment. Various organizations, research institutes, and hospitals are working together to make it a proven and scientific treatment method.

Music therapy in Himachal Pradesh

Music therapy work in Himachal Pradesh is still in its nascent but significant stages. The most notable initiative in this direction is the Music and Music Therapy Research Program initiated by IIT Mandi, where music is being scientifically studied in the context of mental health, stress management, and neuroscience. The Music Department of Himachal Pradesh University also periodically organizes workshops and seminars related to this field. Additionally, sound healing sessions are being conducted at Himachal Pradesh Police training centers to reduce stress and enhance mental balance, a practical application of music-based therapy. In areas like Dharamshala and Shimla, singing bowls, chants, and sound-based relaxation techniques are being used privately for mental peace and wellness. Although music therapy has not yet been formally established as a medical department in the state's government hospitals, the use of music as an adjunct treatment in wellness, counseling, and rehabilitation programs is steadily increasing. Overall, music therapy is gradually expanding in Himachal in the form of research, stress management and wellness programmes.

To effectively introduce music therapy in Himachal Pradesh, it is essential to incorporate it as a formal treatment option in the state's leading healthcare institutions—such as AIIMS Bilaspur, IGMC Shimla, Tanda Medical College, and major district hospitals. Music therapy should be implemented scientifically by mental health specialists, psychologists, cancer treatment centers, and rehabilitation units to achieve significant improvements in patients' stress, depression, pain management, and emotional balance. A dedicated university-level curriculum should be developed. This curriculum would enable clinicians, musicologists, and researchers to collaborate, conduct research, and gain practical experience. This would not only recognize music therapy as an academic discipline but also enable its effective application in clinical and social health. Himachal's rich folk music traditions and serene natural environment could provide additional strength to this therapy. If trained music therapists and musicians are appointed in hospitals, research programmes are started and joint efforts are made by music and medical experts, Himachal Pradesh can emerge as a leading state in the field of music therapy and can bring positive changes in the lives of thousands of patients.