Guqin music therapy to alleviate sleep disturbances in Chinese cancer patients

Abstract

Both in Chinese and in western cancer patients sleep disorders are a frequent and serious complication. The present study used qualitative methods to explore sleep-related benefits of Guqin music therapy in Chinese psycho-oncology and suggests a corresponding theoretical framework which encompasses psychological, neuroscientific and ontological components. In sharp contrast to receptive music therapy which mainly speaks about listening in general, the present study suggests that therapeutic outcomes may considerably depend on individual modes of aesthetic perception. Although some perspectives suggest international transferability of this approach, aspects such as Buddhist belief in re-incarnation or Daoist awareness of permanent transitions may qualify too simple cross-cultural applications. Despite the encouraging results which suggest Guqin music therapy for the improvement of sleep quality in (gastric) cancer patients, further studies are needed for broader clinical and rehabilitative implementation.