Music and healing rituals

Many cultures around the world believe that music can be used for healing. When music is used in this way, it is usually part of a ritual or religious event that is highly significant to the culture in which it is found. Global traditions have used music in rituals to cure illnesses, enhance spiritual development, prevent future diseases, and treat psychological disorders. Ritualistic uses of music for healing typically take the form of chanting. Chanting is a type of singing that is usually performed in groups, is often repetitive, and can have symbolic or narrative meaning. In most contexts in which chanting occurs, ritualistic music is treated with an attitude of reverence as there are often strong beliefs about its religious or spiritual effects. In many cultures, chanting is considered a spiritual practice that can facilitate healing and assist practitioners to enter deep states of meditation.