‘Mozart has this unique quality of producing high-key notes using low-keys and frequent repetition of melodic lines that produces long-term periodicity. And this quality helps in reorganization of neurons in brain,’ Dr Kathpal told dna. Other music may also be helpful, but scientific studies have not been conducted on them. Dr Kathpal said, ‘A few years ago, newly born Monisha, was throttled by her parents and was thrown into dustbin in rural Karnataka. Due to hypoxia, her brain did not get adequate amount of oxygen, and hence grown up into a mentally retarded girl.’ Later, it was observed that she did not respond positively to medicines too. Then at NIMHANS, Bangalore she was given music of her favourite hero and slowly in span of some time she responded well and got back to life, he added. Indian folk and classical music, western – jazz, pop, rock, psychedelic and progressive music, country and African music also have qualities to alleviate mood. These helps increase in flow of alpha-waves in brain and lessen theta-waves (detected through EEG signals), hence making brain active. The neurologist said, ‘Music chosen precisely and scientifically can help patients of anxiety, depression, psychosis, insomnia, pregnant woman, lowers heart rate (controls BP), reduces myocardial oxygen demand.’ Music therapy helps in neuro-modulation of central nervous system; it can help comatose patients and brain injuries, the doctor said. An Adjuvant therapy Music therapy can be useful in treating many neurological problems including anxiety, depression, insomnia. It also helps in lowering heart rate which keeps BP under control. It could not be a replacement to Pharmacotherapy but it can work wonders when used as an adjuvant therapy. Source: DNA Source
