Peer Reviewed Journal

Vol. 9, Issue - 2, Part A (2025)

2025, Vol. 9 Issue 2, Part APages: 33-37

Sound healing therapy: A non-pharmacological approach to enhancing mental and physical well-being

Nrusingh Prasad Gouda PT and Mangal Chandra Yadav
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Abstract:
Background: Sound healing therapy, rooted in ancient traditions, is gaining scientific interest as a complementary approach to enhance psychological and physiological well-being. Among its many modalities, Tibetan singing bowl therapy has emerged as a non-pharmacological intervention that uses harmonic vibrations to influence brainwave activity, nervous system regulation, and emotional states.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Tibetan singing bowl-based sound healing therapy on stress, sleep quality, and mood in healthy adults experiencing mild psychological distress.
Methods: A total of 20 adult participants (aged 25-45 years) underwent 15 sessions of sound healing therapy over five weeks. Each session lasted 60 minutes and included 45 minutes of singing bowl immersion followed by 15 minutes of silent integration. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). In addition, post-intervention semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather qualitative feedback on participants’ subjective experiences. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and thematic analysis.
Results: The results revealed statistically significant improvements across all outcome domains. PSS scores showed a marked reduction (mean difference = 6.4, p < 0.001), indicating decreased perceived stress. Sleep quality improved, as evidenced by reduced PSQI scores (mean difference = 2.8, p < 0.01). Participants reported increased positive affect (p < 0.01) and reduced negative affect (p < 0.001). Thematic analysis of qualitative feedback revealed four major themes: deep relaxation and mental clarity, enhanced sleep, emotional release, and increased energy.
Conclusion: Singing bowl-based sound healing therapy significantly reduced stress levels, improved sleep quality, and enhanced mood in participants. These findings support the therapeutic potential of sound-based interventions as accessible, safe, and holistic tools for stress management and emotional regulation. Future studies with control groups, longer follow-up periods, and clinical populations are recommended to further validate and expand upon these findings.


International Journal of Unani and Integrative Medicine
How to cite this article:
Nrusingh Prasad Gouda PT, Mangal Chandra Yadav. Sound healing therapy: A non-pharmacological approach to enhancing mental and physical well-being. Int J Unani Integ Med 2025;9(2):33-37. DOI: 10.33545/2616454X.2025.v9.i2a.338
 
International Journal of Unani and Integrative Medicine
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