Many research studies conducted in recent times have confirmed that music not only soothes the mind but also cures many physical ailments. This is why many physicians have begun to include music as an important component of therapy. It may be more appropriate to call this Raga Therapy.
Raga Research Center in Chennai has conducted several research studies on the possibilities of using music as a therapy and has found that diseases like hypertension, schizophrenia and even epilepsy can be treated using music. Music soothes our minds and gives us happiness. Patients lying on beds get up to listen to good music, feel energized, and experience a renewed enthusiasm.
According to doctors, music plays a vital role in diseases related to old age, e. g. Alzheimer’s disease and brain injuries. The stress created by various problems in our lives also gets reduced by music. However, it is not possible to say whether every patient will have the same effect of music. How much and for how long will there be the effect of music varies from individual to individual.
In ancient times this was known as Naad Yoga. Sound has a deep effect on our mind and body. Even centuries ago, physicians and doctors of kings had experimented with complementing the treatment of physical ailments with Naad Yoga. The sound of the instruments and compositions in the proper raga infuses new energy in the body.
According to the old Indian scripture – Swara shastra, there are 72 special ragas that can regulate 72 very important naadis (channels of vital energy) within our body. If a person recites these ragas with total concentration and without errors, it profoundly affects these special channels. Specialists in Neurology at major hospitals also do not deny the significance of music’s effect on our nervous system. Therefore, it is possible to treat people suffering from amnesia with music
According to experts, some musical ragas produce vibrations that positively affect muscles, nerves, and even chakras, the body’s energy centers. Music regularises the flow of electrical signals through nerves. Some ragas used in medical treatments include Chandrakauns, Pahadi, Malkauns, Bhoopali, and Todi. Raag Pahadi is used to treat diseases related to the respiratory system. Raag Chandrakauns helps in treating conditions associated with the heart. In case of irregular blood pressure, Raag Asavari and Malkauns are beneficial. Raag Todi and Bhoopali help treat hypertension. Let us hope that the acceptance of Naad yoga and Raga therapy will increase with time, and their utilization for treating serious diseases will also increase.
Akhand Jyoti Magazine 2022 Jul-Aug
