The Effect of Tibetan Singing Bowls on Stress Reduction: A Heart Rate Variability Study.
Music therapy, especially Tibetan Singing Bowls (TSB) rooted in ancient practices, holds promise for enhancing mental well-being and autonomic regulation through their unique acoustic properties and therapeutic vibrations. Previous research indicated that TSB could influence physiological responses, including heart rate variability (HRV), a significant indicator of autonomic nervous system activity (ANS) and stress. This study aimed to study the impact of TSB on HRV. The Polar Ignite Series 1 wristwatch continuously measured Heart Rate (HR). Eight participants, aged 20-22, were recorded throughout a 10-minute relaxation period followed by a 30-minute TSB music meditation. Data was analyzed with the HRV Matlab toolbox. Results revealed a significant improvement in overall HRV and autonomic function (SDNN p = 0.02344). NN50 also increased significantly (p < 0.05), which suggests enhanced parasympathetic activity and relaxation response. These results highlight the potential of TSB music as a therapeutic intervention to improve stress generally and HRV in particular.Clinical Relevance- This study demonstrates the efficacy of Tibetan Singing Bowl music meditation in enhancing autonomic balance, evidenced by significant increases in SDNN and NN50. As a noninvasive, low-cost intervention, TSB therapy can be readily integrated into clinical stress-reduction programs, anxiety management strategies, and cardiac rehabilitation protocols to boost parasympathetic tone and improve heart rate variability, ultimately supporting patient resilience and cardiovascular health.
Authors
Nasrat Nasrat, Alskafi Alskafi, Ahmad Ahmad, Alameri Alameri, Albadawna Albadawna, Aldosari Aldosari, Alkhanbouli Alkhanbouli, Alkindi Alkindi, Alzaabi Alzaabi, Jelinek Jelinek
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