The impact of kirtan and spiritual music on mental health and wellbeing

Kirtan and spiritual music have been part of human culture for centuries, often used to foster connection, peace, and healing. Today, many people seek ways to improve their mental health beyond traditional methods. Kirtan, a form of devotional singing rooted in ancient traditions, offers a unique path to emotional balance and mental clarity. This post explores how kirtan and spiritual music can support mental health and wellbeing, backed by examples and practical insights.

A person playing harmonium during kirtan in a calm room

What is kirtan and how does It work?

Kirtan is a call-and-response style of singing that originates from Indian spiritual traditions. It involves chanting mantras or sacred phrases, often accompanied by instruments like the harmonium, tabla, or cymbals. Unlike passive listening, kirtan invites active participation, creating a shared experience that can deepen emotional connection.

The repetitive nature of chanting helps focus the mind, similar to meditation. This focus can reduce mental chatter and promote a state of calm. The communal aspect also fosters a sense of belonging, which is essential for emotional wellbeing.

How spiritual music influences the brain

Scientific studies show that music affects brain regions involved in emotion, memory, and motivation. Spiritual music, including kirtan, often uses specific rhythms and melodies that can:

• Lower cortisol levels, reducing stress

• Increase dopamine release, enhancing feelings of pleasure

• Activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation

Modern research suggests that chanting together can lift mood, calm anxiety, and help people feel more connected.

Benefits of kirtan for mental health

Reduces stress and anxiety

The rhythmic chanting and soothing melodies in kirtan help slow down breathing and heart rate. This physiological response counters the fight-or-flight reaction triggered by stress. People who practice kirtan regularly often report feeling calmer and more grounded.

Enhances emotional expression

Kirtan encourages open expression of feelings through song. This can be especially helpful for those who find it difficult to articulate emotions verbally. Singing together creates a safe space for vulnerability and emotional release.

Builds community and social Support

Loneliness and isolation are significant risk factors for mental health issues. Kirtan sessions typically involve group participation, which strengthens social bonds. Sharing a spiritual practice with others can foster empathy and reduce feelings of isolation.

Improves Focus and Mindfulness

The repetitive chanting in kirtan acts as a form of mindfulness practice. It trains the mind to stay present and attentive, which can improve concentration and reduce rumination on negative thoughts.

Group participating in outdoor kirtan session sitting in a circle

Practical ways to incorporate kirtan and spiritual music

• Join a local kirtan group or class: Many communities offer regular sessions where beginners are welcome.

• Use online resources: Streaming platforms and apps provide access to kirtan music and guided chanting.

• Create a daily practice: Even 10 minutes of chanting or listening to spiritual music can help reduce stress.

• Combine with meditation: Use kirtan as a warm-up or accompaniment to meditation for deeper relaxation.

• Attend retreats or workshops: Immersive experiences can deepen your connection to the practice and its benefits.

  
  

Real-life examples and experiences

Many people share stories of how kirtan helped them during difficult times. For instance, a woman recovering from anxiety found that attending weekly kirtan sessions gave her a sense of peace and community she had not experienced before. Another individual used chanting as a tool to manage work-related stress, reporting improved sleep and mood.

These examples highlight how kirtan and spiritual music can be accessible tools for mental health support, complementing other treatments or self-care routines.

Close-up of hands playing tabla drums during spiritual music session

Final thoughts on kirtan and mental wellbeing

Kirtan and spiritual music offer more than just pleasant sounds; they provide a pathway to emotional balance, stress relief, and social connection. Incorporating these practices into daily life can support mental health in meaningful ways. Whether you join a group or explore on your own, the power of chanting and spiritual melodies can help calm the mind and uplift the spirit.

Bibliography

Bernardi, L. et al. (2001)   ‘Effect of rosary prayer and yoga mantras on autonomic cardiovascular rhythms’, British Medical Journal, 323(7327), pp. 1446–1449.

Bormann, J.E. et al. (2006)   ‘Frequent chanting: A spiritual coping practice for people living with HIV’, Journal of Holistic Nursing, 24(2), pp. 61–69.

Fancourt, D. & Finn, S. (2019)   ‘What is the evidence on the role of the arts in improving health and well-being?’, WHO Regional Office for Europe. (Shows strong evidence for music and group singing reducing stress and improving wellbeing.)

Kreutz, G. et al. (2004)   ‘Does singing promote well-being?’, Music Perception, 22(2), pp. 279–284.

Lehmann, A.C. & Seufert, T. (2017)   ‘The influence of music on stress reduction’, Psychology of Music, 45(4), pp. 545–559.

Perry, G., Polito, V. & Thompson, W. (2024)   ‘Exploring the physiological and psychological effects of group chanting’, Journal of Religion and Health, 63, pp. 112–130.

Simpson, A., Perry, G. & Thompson, W. (2021)   ‘Assessing vocal chanting as an online psychosocial intervention’, Frontiers in Psychology, 12, Article 667.

Tarr, B., Launay, J. & Dunbar, R. (2014)   ‘Music and social bonding: “Self-other” merging and neurohormonal mechanisms’, Frontiers in Psychology, 5, Article 1096.

Thoma, M.V. et al. (2013)   ‘The effect of music on the human stress response’, PLOS ONE, 8(8), e70156.

Vickhoff, B. et al. (2013)   ‘Music structure determines heart rate variability of singers’, Frontiers in Psychology, 4, Article 334. (Shows chanting/singing synchronises breathing and activates the parasympathetic nervous system.)

Jambavati