The effects of music listening and perceived sensory experiences on the immune system as measured by interleukin-1 and cortisol

Abstract

The purposes of this study were (a) to determine whether listening to selected music and expression of “perceived sensory experiences” would produce significant changes in the immune system as measured by interleukin-1 and cortisol, and (b) to determine the relationships between such changes and “perceived sensory experiences” as measured by the presence of imagery factors in drawings produced by the subjects following the music listening experience. Thirty-six subjects were divided into two experimental and two control groups. Blood samples taken before and after treatment were assayed for changes in immune agents interleukin-1 (IL-1) and cortisol. A significant increase in IL-1 was shown in one experimental group; a significant decrease in cortisol was shown in both experimental groups. No significant effects were found in the control groups. No significant relationships were established between “perceived sensory experiences” and immune agent changes. © 1993 by the National Association for Music Therapy, Inc.