Kelly Wallers

During the pandemic, the sessions are being conducted solo, each tailored to specific needs. “The virus has been operating in a way where it preys on an individual’s weakest spot. For instance, if somebody is suffering from throat ache, we focus on the throat chakra,” says Vishala. 

Poll

Who will win the Punjab Elections?

BJP 32.84%

AAP 41.79%

INC 25.37%

Submit

View All In Poll

Interestingly, this field of thought is now receiving clinical attention and funding. Babar A Khan, MD, assistant professor of medicine at the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, for example, is using a sound health grant to test music intervention with patients who have delirium, including those with COVID-19. 

Darryl Loyola

City-based musician Kelly Waller has long been curious about sound therapy, but it’s only when she was diagnosed with COVID-19 that she decided to sign up for a class. “Though I was ill, I went through the motions of my symptoms fairly quickly. This infection is characterised by manifesting as different symptoms in different people. You never know what to expect. The sound therapy session was designed to help us find peace—the mind is what makes the body stronger.” Waller’s class involved listening to sounds at different frequencies. 

Kamakshi says she has noticed overriding worry among their patients. Mumbai-based Darryl Loyola is a kindergarten teacher. After testing positive for the virus this year, Loyola says his anxiety levels hit the roof. “I deal with it [stress] on a daily basis because of my job, but the disease triggered it to a new level.” Loyola says the sessions have allowed him to introspect and form a new relationship with music and sound. “I have definitely been able to relax more and calm myself.” 

Kamakshi says the efficacy of the therapy also hinges on the receiver. “They have to be driven. And this becomes all the more important in virtual sessions. When you’re in my environment, I’m in a position to control the distractions, but when you are in your own set-up, you need to make sure that it’s conducive to receive the healing.”