The Islamic Perspective of Music and Singing for Healing
Music therapy is the practice and science of using music’s therapeutic powers to promote health. This holistic treatment integrates physical, emotional, mental and social aspects of a patient’s condition to bring about healing. It has been successfully used to treat various medical issues like anxiety, depression, high blood pressure and cancer.
Music as a healing technique has been practiced for centuries, and its popularity continues to spread. People are using it to heal their bodies, strengthen their minds and unlock their creative spirit. Studies have proven that it reduces stress levels, boosts immunity levels and enhances quality of life for premature babies and sick children alike.
Nowadays, Islam does not advocate the use of music; however, this view has changed over time. In the 8th century, Muslim physicians began incorporating musico-therapy into their treatments of mental illness as well as using chanting to cure diseases like insomnia or hysteria. This practice formed an integral part of their holistic approach when treating patients.
Research into the effects of music in cancer treatment is limited, but it has been known to boost motivation and reduce pain while aiding other treatment objectives such as strengthening immunity, relieving anxiety and improving social interaction.
