Authors (including presenting author) :
Ngai WC, Man SC, Lam CK, Lam LCW, Ng CF
Affiliation :
Department of Psychiatry, North District Hospital, Hong Kong
Introduction :
Singing bowls are an ancient tool for sound therapy. They produce harmonious, calming melodies that can have a soothing effect on a person's senses. The resonating sounds can engender a deep, peaceful sentiment, aligning with our inner rhythm. Beyond serving as an auditory experience, the rhythmic hum has healing properties, aiding in the reduction of stress and promotion of tranquility. Current research highlights potential health benefits of singing bowl therapy. The adoption of this non-pharmacological intervention in the Psychogeriatric Day Unit at North District Hospital offers an alternative approach to address depressive symptoms in elderly patients. A close group with series of 6 sessions was organized in a regular basis.
Objectives :
The study aimed: (1) To enhance the mental wellbeing of patients, (2) To lower patients' resting heart rate and improve blood oxygen levels, and (3) To augment patients’ experiences.
Methodology :
The study design employed pre and post tests for (1) & (2) (1) Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale to gauge psychological wellbeing, (2) Physiological monitoring and (3) Satisfaction survey to captured patients' experiences
Result & Outcome :
8 patients (3 males, 5 females, aged between 66-85) fully participated in all sessions. Significant results were observed concerning the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale scores. The median score rises from 40.63 (18-55 range) to 49.25 (26-66 range). Also, pre and post physiological data indicated all the patients has decrease in heart rate. 75% of them had 5-10% drop in pulse rate (p<0.015). Moreover, all patients has rise in oxygen levels, 88% of them exhibited increase 0.9–1.6% in SpO2 (p<0.001) denoting enhanced mental clarity and stress relief. Besides, patient satisfaction survey revealed unanimously positive results across various aspects including stress reduction, mood calmness and muscle relaxation. Overall satisfaction was fairly high, averaging 4.363/5 (87.26%). Participants' willingness to rejoin stood as a significant finding scoring 4.625/5, followed by effective stress reduction at 4.429/5. Conclusion: The outcome of this study highlights the potential therapeutic strength of singing bowl therapy for mitigating depressive symptoms in elderly. The affirmative response and encouraging results validate its use in elderly mental healthcare. Further research is proposed to extend these observations and substantiate the efficacy of singing bowl therapy.
