Guwahati: Former Director General of the CAG P. Sesh Kumar has chronicled the power of music to heal in his new book ‘The Sacred Sound Path’ by spotlighting the life journey of Mysore’s Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swami.“Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, has significantly expanded the discourse on music therapy by integrating ancient Indian musical traditions with holistic healing practices. His teachings emphasize the therapeutic properties of specific musical scales, known as ragas, which influence physical, mental, and spiritual well-being,” Kumar wrote in his new book.The auditor-turned author cited case studies from works of Daniel J. Levitin, an acclaimed neuroscientist and musician, to stress on “scientific foundation for understanding the healing power of music”. “His work explores how music influences multiple regions of the brain, including those responsible for perception, emotion, memory, and motor functions. Levitin highlights the role of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are essential for mood regulation and motivation, and shows how engaging with music can increase their levels, thereby improving mental well-being,” added Kumar.The author cited musical concerts of Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swami in several cities in western nations to highlight the acceptance of India’s traditional music system for power to heal. He credited the Swami for the global acceptance of “Raga Ragini Vidya”, which explores the intricate relationship between musical notes and human emotions. Kumar stated that Raga Ragini Vidya is deeply rooted in Nāda Yoga, “an ancient discipline that posits sound vibrations as a fundamental force influencing the body’s energy centers, or chakras.”“By aligning particular ragas with specific emotional states, compositions by Swamiji aim to induce desired psychological and physiological responses. His concerts, collectively known as Raga Sagara (Ocean of Ragas), have been performed at globally renowned venues such as the Royal Albert Hall in London, the Sydney Opera House, and the Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall in New York,” added the author.The book stated that the “these performances have been widely acclaimed for their ability to promote meditation, relaxation, and healing.”“Sri Swamiji’s therapeutic methodology is comprehensive, integrating various elements such as self-composed lyrics containing resonant seed syllables like ‘Om,’ astrological calculations, the healing energy of crystals and gems, specific bonsai trees, and bird sounds associated with each raga. These elements collectively contribute to the precise selection of musical frequencies tailored to individual needs in both live therapy sessions and studio recordings,” added Kumar in the book, published by The Browser.The auditor also stated that “the practical efficacy of Sri Swamiji’s music therapy has been observed in diverse settings, including hospitals, educational institutions, and correctional facilities. Patients suffering from psychosomatic ailments, chronic conditions, and terminal illnesses have reported significant relief after engaging with the music.”Kumar quoted Levitin underscoring the importance of personalized music therapy, demonstrating that individual preferences in musical selections significantly affect therapeutic outcomes. “A striking example is the case of singer songwriter Joni Mitchell, who, following a severe stroke, regained speech and mobility through a customized music therapy program incorporating her favorite songs,” Kumar quoted Levitin.He stated that Levitin’s research also delved into rhythmic auditory stimulation, which has been particularly effective for individuals with movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. “Structured rhythms in music can act as external cues, facilitating improved gait and coordination,” he added.Kumar further stated that Mysore Swami’s musical interventions have been “used to alleviate stress among police personnel and inmates, demonstrating the broad applicability of his therapeutic music.” “His contributions to Nāda Chikitsa were recognized by Sri Krishnadevaraya University (2013), World Classical Tamil University, London (2016), and Dr Gangubai Hanagal Music & Performing Arts University, Karnataka (2023),” added the author.Kumar argued that the core philosophy is based “the understanding that Nāda (sound) is a cosmic force with the intrinsic ability to influence the human mind, body, and spirit.”Specific musical notes and ragas can restore balance and promote healing by resonating with the body’s energy centers, he said, adding that “music has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, diminishing stress and anxiety”.He further quoted Levitin to state that “active engagement with music, such as playing an instrument or singing, enhances neuroplasticity. This process fosters the creation of new neural pathways, potentially delaying the onset of dementia-related symptoms.”
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