Low heart rate variability raises a person’s risk of suffering from a heart attack or stroke by 45% and make those who have suffered an event more likely to die, as suggested in previous research.
Science does not always agree but Indians long believe in the power of various alternative therapies as mode of treatment for aliments, listening to soothing music at bedtime is a cheap and easy implement therapy that as the least cannot cause harm, says Dr. Naresh Sen.
149 healthy subjects with an average age of 26 listened to different sounds on 3 seperate nights just before retiring to bed; some played yoga music others heard pop tunes with a steady beat, and the remainder sat in silence. During each session subject heart rates were measured for 5 minutes before session start, 10 minutes into session, and again 5 minutes after session. Anxiety levels and self reported positive emotions were noted, with results suggesting listening to yoga music increasing heart rate variability, variability reduced with pop music, and no change was noted with silence. Yoga music decreases anxiety levels while boosting positivity, pop music and silence made subjects feel more anxious. More studies are needed to determine effects of music interventions offered by trained music therapists and larger groups of subjects.
Yoga is believed to benefit the central nervous system, strengthen immunity, and improve sense of focus. Practicing Yoga reduces depression, anxiety, and boosts mindfulness. Yoga increases levels of specific proteins and hormones associated with improved resilience to stress. Yoga and meditation can help reduce inflammation and is linked to improved function of the central nervous and immune systems. This is the first study to the researchers knowledge to examine a broad range of pro and anti-inflammatory markers in healthy populations before, during, and after yoga meditation intervention.
