Therapeutic Effect of Vedic Chant and Indian Classical Raag on Anxiety of University Students: Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract

Background: Traditional music therapy practices like Raag Chikitsa and Vedic Chanting have been used in Indian culture for centuries. Studies supporting the therapeutic effects of both could serve as preventative tools against psychological disorders. Students facing academic and social pressures often risk their mental health issues impairing well-being, leading to dropout or suicide. The choice and mindful exposure of music can reduce anxiety. Background music may boost attention, efficiency, and productivity indirectly, too. Vedic Chants may modulate neurotransmitter activity by inducing specific frequencies and vibrations. However, research comparing Vedic Chant and Raag effects on anxiety among university students is lacking.
Objective: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Vedic Chant and Indian classical Raag on the anxiety level of University Students.
Methods: It is an open-label, three-arm, parallel-group, randomized controlled study. Participants will be university students aged 18 to 45 years. Two types of interventions, compared to a control group, will be conducted among university students with moderate to high anxiety levels on STAI (Spielberger’s State–Trait Anxiety Inventory). The sessions will last 10 days, with three time points: a baseline assessment on day 1 and a post-assessment on week 2, to compare the effectiveness of both Interventions with a control group. The third point of assessment will be done after four weeks.
Conclusion: The interventions involving Vedic Chant and Indian Classical Raag are expected to lower university students’ anxiety scores from moderate and high levels. A comparative study will help explore different options and modalities for future music therapy efforts.
Key Messages:
• Research evidence suggests that the therapeutic effect of music enhances emotional and psychological well-being.
• Both Vedic Chant and Indian Classical Raag are interventions that can have therapeutic value, particularly in dealing with non- clinical populations.
• Indian Classical Raag intervention is a secular therapy and may be applied irrespective of religion and community.
• Vedic chant intervention may be more effectively used in the Hindu/ Buddhist population due to the religious element.