Effect of Indian classical music microtones on sleep quality and memory in young adults

Introduction and Aim: Music therapy ‘Raag Chikitsa’ can be hailed as a safe adjunct in therapy for insomnia and memory disturbances. In the current study, effect of ‘Raag Chikitsa’ on sleep and memory was explored. Material and methods: Present study was conducted on 148 healthy volunteers between the age group 18-21. Subjects were asked to answer a validated Epworth Sleepiness scale and Pittsburgh sleep quality index simultaneously, following which memory tests were conducted. They were then directed to listen to ‘Raag Darbari’ for 15 minutes for 30 days. Following this sleep and memory tests were repeated on them. Results: The result was analysed using Wilcoxon signed rank test. p value<0.05 was regarded as significant. Mean Epworth total score and PSQI was reduced significantly after exposure to music. There was a significant improvement in memory after exposure to ‘Raag Darbari’. PSQI score decreased significantly in subjects who preferred classical music. There was a significant improvement of word recall after 15 minutes, paired associated word recall and story recall in them as well. Conclusion: The results help to safely state that sleep quality and memory improves with music therapy. Key words: Music therapy; memory tests; Pittsburgh sleep quality index; Epworth sleepiness scale; Raag Darbari.