Transcendence occurs for the human mind when the soft and subtle nuances of enchanting rhythm hit the eardrums and transform the conscious to a higher state of existence. We have all been there, where a particular song can lift our moods from the worst abysses of despair or spark creativity in us.

Human knowledge of the healing effect of music is ancient and can be found in the works of great philosophers like Plato and Aristotle and it became a formal profession after World War I and World War II where a significant increase in healing capabilities was monitored in veterans who were being diagnosed in hospitals with community musicians.

Music therapy addresses the psychological, physical and cognitive needs of individuals and Indian music plays a vital role to provide a vast spectrum catering to the needs of patients from different cultural backgrounds. As Indian music is based on Raga and Rasa and depends on melodic harmony, unlike Western music which depends on harmony, thus creating a single line of tune through the occurrence of tones or musical notes.

Research shows that music therapy is quite beneficial for the overall health and well-being of patients, especially those suffering from strokes. Studies show that music helps alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety in post-stroke patients. Rhythmic music can help improve motor functions of the body and allow for better muscle control. Listening to music also improves cognition, increases attention span, memory, organization and ability to solve problems. The American Psychology Association have conducted various tests and experiments most of which lead to the conclusive fact of the healing power of the vibration of music. A Baycrest study will embark to combine music therapy with brain stimulation to improve memory among patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment(MCI), thus paving the way for affordable treatment for MCI patients.

Elizabeth Stegemoller, an assistant professor in kinesiology at Iowa State University conducted an experiment, proving that music therapy helps strengthen muscle activity in people with Parkinson’s disease.

The horizon looks clearer than ever for music therapy and this is not only an effective and cheap treatment for patients but also improves the overall psychological functioning of all human beings, irrespective of the brain condition. Music might just be a way to treat both serious illnesses as well as stress and depression which is very prevalent in today’s world.