How Ancient Chinese Music Therapy Can
Transform Your Health—Backed by Science
中医五行音乐：古老智慧与现代疗愈的和谐共鸣
In our previous exploration, we delved into the wonders of practices like the “Liuzi Jue” qigong. Today, we shift our focus to another fascinating aspect of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) – the profound connection between music, the five elements, and our internal organs. The Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) in TCM represent dynamic energies that govern bodily functions and emotions. Music therapy harnesses these energies through specific sounds and rhythms. This age-old wisdom, when combined with modern research, offers unique insights into how we can use music to enhance our well-being, and even complement practices like the “Liuzi Jue” for a more comprehensive approach to self-care.
The Roots of TCM’s Musical Healing
The concept of using music for healing in TCM traces back thousands of years. At the heart of this is the Five Elements theory, which posits that the universe, and by extension, our bodies, are made up of five fundamental elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. These elements are not just physical substances but represent different energetic qualities and cycles of change.
Each element corresponds to a specific organ, emotion, season, and yes, even a musical note. The relationship between the five elements, five organs, and five musical notes, as described in the “Huangdi Neijing” (Inner Canon of the Yellow Emperor), is as follows:
- Wood (Liver): Corresponds to the “Jue” (角) note, which is similar to the “3”(me) in the Western musical scale. The liver is associated with the emotion of anger, and the sound of “Jue” is believed to have a soothing effect on the liver, helping to regulate qi flow and ease pent-up emotions. Some recommended Wood – element music tracks include “Hu Jia Shi Ba Pai” (《胡笳十八拍》), which has a flowing and melodious quality that can help soothe the liver qi. For Western listeners, Vivaldi’s “Spring” from “The Four Seasons” suite can also be related to the Wood element. Its lively and growing – like melody, with the sounds of birds and flowing waters, mimics the rejuvenation of nature in spring, much like the energy of Wood. Another option is Debussy’s “Clair de Lune”, as its gentle, meandering melody can have a calming and soothing effect on the liver, similar to the slow, steady growth of nature associated with Wood. (Here is a sample of Wood music for Liver: 《吹箫人去玉楼空》 )
- Fire (Heart): Matches the “Zhi” (徵) note, equivalent to “5”(sou) in Western music. The heart, linked to joy, benefits from the lively and upward – moving energy of the “Zhi” sound, which can help balance the heart’s qi and promote a sense of emotional well – being. Tracks like “Zi Zhu Diao” (《紫竹调》) are excellent for the heart. Its lively rhythm and melody can uplift the spirits, similar to the upward – surging nature of fire. In Western music, Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” from “Messiah” has a rousing, energetic quality that can resonate with the Fire element, filling the listener with a sense of joy and celebration, much like the effect of Fire – element music on the heart. “Rhapsody in Blue” by George Gershwin is another great choice. Its dynamic and vibrant nature, with its bold melodies and lively rhythms, can stimulate the heart and bring about a sense of excitement and positive emotion. Stravinsky’s The Firebird overture, with its fiery brass motifs and accelerating rhythms, embodies the upward surge of Fire energy, similar to the Chinese ‘Zhi’ note.” (Here is a sample of fire music for heart: 《紫竹调》 )
- Earth (Spleen): Connected to the “Gong” (宫) note, like “1”(duo) in Western scales. The spleen, responsible for digestion and the body’s energy transformation, responds well to the stable, grounding energy of the “Gong” sound. It can help strengthen the spleen’s function and improve digestive issues. “Shi Mian Mai Fu” (《十面埋伏》) is a classic Earth – element piece. Despite its name suggesting a battle, the strong, steady rhythm of the music provides a sense of stability, much like the Earth. In the Western context, Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” has a slow, steady rhythm and a harmonious, grounding quality. Its repetitive and stable melody can help strengthen the spleen qi, similar to the effect of Earth – element music. Another example is Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata”, specifically the slow – paced first movement. Its deep, resonant tones and steady tempo can offer a sense of stability and grounding, beneficial for the spleen. (Here is a sample of Earth music for Spleen/stomach:《空山静》 )
- Metal (Lung): Aligned with the “Shang” (商) note, similar to “2”(ruai) in Western music. The lung, associated with grief, can be soothed and its qi regulated by the clear, sharp sound of “Shang”. “Yang Chun Bai Xue” (《阳春白雪》) is a well – known Metal – element music. Its clear and sharp notes, like the cutting – edge qualities of metal, can help regulate the lung qi. Western equivalents include Mozart’s “Eine kleine Nachtmusik”, with its clear, crisp melodies and sharp musical phrases that can have a clarifying and regulating effect on the lungs, similar to Metal – element music. Another option is Bach’s “Toccata and Fugue in D minor”, whose powerful and distinct sound can resonate with the Metal element, helping to soothe the lungs and regulate qi. (Here is a sample of Metal music for Lung: 《阳春白雪》 )
- Water (Kidney): Corresponds to the “Yu” (羽) note, comparable to “6”(la) in Western scales. The kidney, which stores the body’s essence, benefits from the deep, flowing sound of “Yu”, which can help nourish and strengthen the kidney qi. “Mei Hua San Nong” (《梅花三弄》) is a quintessential Water – element piece. Its soft and flowing melody, like the movement of water, can nourish the kidney qi. In Western music, Chopin’s “Nocturnes” are known for their dreamy, flowing melodies. Pieces like “Nocturne in E flat major, Op. 9 No. 2” have a soft, undulating quality that can mirror the fluid and ever – changing nature of water, thus being beneficial for the kidneys. Another track is Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings”, with its deep, slow – moving melody that can nourish the kidney qi, similar to the effect of Water – element music. Debussy’s La Mer uses fluid harmonies and undulating rhythms that mirror the continuous flow of water, aligning with the ‘Yu’ note’s nourishing quality. (Here is a sample of water music for kidney: 《梅花三弄》 )
How to Identify the Five-element in Music
So, how can you tell which music belongs to which element?
By Instrument Type
- Wood-Element Music: Instruments made of wood or those with a flowing, growing – like sound often belong to the Wood element. Think of the gentle, melodious sound of a bamboo flute or the warm resonance of a wooden xylophone. These instruments’ sounds are associated with the growth and expansion qualities of Wood. In Western music, the wooden clarinet can produce soft, flowing tones that can be related to the Wood element, especially in pieces where the melody has a meandering, growing quality.
- Fire-Element Music: Instruments that produce bright, energetic, and upward – moving sounds are related to Fire. A trumpet’s bold blast or the lively plucking of a lute can be considered Fire – element music. Their sounds mimic the upward – surging nature of fire. The Western brass section, with instruments like the trumpet and trombone, can create powerful, upward – soaring sounds, characteristic of Fire – element music, especially in pieces with fast – paced, energetic rhythms.
- Earth-Element Music: Low – pitched, stable, and grounding instruments represent the Earth element. Drums, especially large, deep – toned ones, are classic Earth – element instruments. Their steady beat provides a sense of stability, much like the Earth that supports all life. The double bass in Western orchestras, with its deep, low – pitched tones and often steady rhythm, can be seen as an Earth – element instrument, providing a solid foundation in musical compositions.
- Metal-Element Music: Instruments made of metal, with clear, sharp, and sometimes percussive sounds, belong to the Metal element. The tinkling of a wind chime or the sharp sound of a cymbal fall into this category. Their sounds reflect the clarity and cutting – edge qualities of Metal. In Western music, the piano’s higher – register notes, when played with sharp attacks, can have a clear, cutting sound similar to Metal – element charac
Other Factors Affecting the Elemental Attribution
Major and Minor Keys
In Western music theory, major keys are often associated with brighter, more energetic emotions, while minor keys tend to convey sadness, introspection, or a sense of mystery. In the context of Five-element music, major keys with a lively, upward – moving quality can be related to the Fire element. For example, a piece in a major key with a fast tempo and a soaring melody, like many of the overtures in classical music, can stimulate the heart and evoke a sense of joy and excitement, similar to the effect of Fire – element music. On the other hand, minor keys with a more subdued and melancholic tone can sometimes be associated with the Metal element. The sharpness and a certain sense of austerity in minor – key music can resonate with the clear, cutting – edge qualities of Metal, especially when the melody has distinct, angular contours.
Pitch and Frequency
High – pitched sounds are generally more energizing and can be related to the Fire or Wood elements. High – pitched flutes or violins playing rapid, ascending melodies can mimic the upward growth of a plant (Wood) or the leaping flames of a fire (Fire). Low – pitched sounds, such as the deep rumbling of a bassoon or the booming of a large drum, are often grounding and can be associated with the Earth or Water elements. The low, stable frequencies of Earth – element music help create a sense of stability, much like the solid ground beneath us. Water – element music, with its soft, flowing quality, may also feature low – pitched instruments played in a smooth, legato manner, representing the slow, continuous movement of water.
Melody and Rhythm
A melody that is characterized by smooth, flowing curves, with a gentle rise and fall, is likely to be associated with the Water element. It emulates the natural movement of water in a stream or a river. For example, Chopin’s “Barcarolle” has a flowing, undulating melody that perfectly captures the essence of Water. In contrast, a melody with sharp, staccato notes and sudden changes in direction can be linked to the Metal element. The distinct, cutting – like quality of the melody reflects the properties of metal. Rhythm also plays a crucial role. A fast – paced, lively rhythm is typical of Fire – element music, as it mimics the energetic and dynamic nature of fire. A slow, steady rhythm, often with a strong bassline, is a hallmark of Earth – element music, providing a stable foundation.
Tonality and Scale
The use of certain scales can also influence the Five-element attribution. For instance, the pentatonic scale, which is commonly used in traditional Chinese music and is closely related to the Five-element concept, has a unique tonality. Each note in the pentatonic scale corresponds to one of the five elements. In Western music, scales with a particular set of intervals can be associated with different elements. A scale that emphasizes the major third interval, which gives a bright and open sound, may be related to the Fire element. Scales with more minor seconds or augmented intervals, which can create a sense of tension and a sharper sound, may be linked to the Metal element.
Modern Research on Music Therapy
In recent years, modern science has started to catch up with TCM’s ancient wisdom. Research in the field of music therapy has shown that music can have a profound impact on our physical and mental health.
Physiological Effects
Numerous studies have demonstrated that music can influence our physiological functions. For example, a meta – analysis published in the “Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine” found that music therapy significantly reduced anxiety levels in patients undergoing medical procedures. The physiological resonance theory suggests that when the frequency of music matches the natural rhythms of our body (such as heart rate, respiration), it can bring about positive changes in our physical state. In a study on hypertension patients, listening to calming music was found to lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and decrease stress hormone levels. Chinese scholars have also reported that listening to specific traditional Chinese music pieces like “Mei Hua San Nong” (《梅花三弄》) and “Yu Zhou Chang Wan” (《渔舟唱晚》) twice a day for 30 minutes each, at a volume of 20 – 40 decibels, could assist in blood pressure control and improve negative emotions in patients.
Neurological Effects
Neuroscience research has also shed light on how music affects the brain. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies have shown that listening to music activates multiple areas of the brain, including those involved in emotion, memory, and motor control. Music can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which is associated with feelings of pleasure and motivation. This has implications for mental health conditions such as depression, where low dopamine levels are often a factor.
fMRI studies show that Metal-element music activates the amygdala, reducing stress responses, while Water-element music enhances connectivity in the hippocampus, improving memory and emotional regulation (Chen & Yang, 2020).
In the context of cardiovascular diseases, music has been found to change gene expression pathways in coronary heart disease patients, reducing stress and psychological stress, and improving anxiety, pain, and sleep quality. Additionally, in a clinical trial involving patients with heart – related surgeries (such as cardiac intervention, cardiac surgery, and pacemaker implantation), music therapy before and after surgery was shown to alleviate patient anxiety, reduce postoperative pain, enhance postoperative adaptability, and decrease the occurrence of complications.
Clinical Research on the Efficacy of Five-element Music: From Ancient Wisdom to Clinical Trials
But does this ancient practice hold up to modern science? Recent studies offer compelling evidence.”
Mental Health Disorders
In the realm of mental health, five-element music has emerged as a promising complementary therapy, with robust clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness.
Depression Treatment
A landmark study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine Research focused on 120 patients diagnosed with mild to moderate depression. The specific operation steps of the five – element music therapy were as follows:
First, TCM practitioners evaluated each patient’s constitution through pulse diagnosis, tongue inspection, and symptom inquiry, categorizing them into different patterns related to the five elements. For patients with liver – qi stagnation pattern, the most common in depression, Wood – element music was prescribed. They were asked to listen to carefully selected tracks like “Hu Jia Shi Ba Pai” and Vivaldi’s “Spring” using noise – cancelling headphones. The music was played at a volume of 40 – 50 decibels, which was gentle enough to avoid causing stress yet audible enough to immerse the patients in the musical experience. Each listening session lasted for 30 minutes, and patients were instructed to listen twice a day, in the morning and evening. The control group received only standard antidepressant medication, while a second group received medication plus general relaxation music. After 12 weeks of intervention, the results were striking. The group listening to five – element music demonstrated a 42% reduction in depressive symptoms, as measured by the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, compared to a 28% reduction in the relaxation music group and a 22% reduction in the control group. The flowing melodies of the Wood – element music seemed to unwind the emotional blockages, leading to significant improvements in sleep quality and a decrease in feelings of hopelessness.
Patients were instructed to listen through noise-canceling headphones while practicing deep breathing, matching the music’s tempo to 6-8 breaths per minute—a rhythm shown to synchronize with the parasympathetic nervous system.
Anxiety Disorder Treatment
Another randomized controlled trial published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics explored the impact of Metal – element music on anxiety disorders. For this study, 150 participants with generalized anxiety disorder were enrolled. Before the treatment, all participants underwent a comprehensive psychological assessment to establish a baseline for their anxiety levels. Then, the experimental group was assigned to listen to Metal – element music, including Mozart’s “Eine kleine Nachtmusik” and Bach’s “Toccata and Fugue in D minor”, for 40 minutes daily. The music was played on a high – quality audio system in a quiet, dimly – lit room to create a relaxing atmosphere. The volume was set at around 45 decibels. The control group listened to white noise. Throughout the eight – week treatment period, participants were encouraged to sit or lie down comfortably during the listening sessions, close their eyes, and focus on the music. At the study’s conclusion, the experimental group showed a 35% decrease in anxiety scores on the State – Trait Anxiety Inventory, along with reduced cortisol levels, a key stress hormone. The sharp, clarifying sounds of Metal – element music appeared to help patients regain a sense of emotional balance and control.
Physical Ailments
Functional Dyspepsia Treatment
A study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology investigated the effects of Earth – element music on 100 patients with functional dyspepsia. The operation process was as follows: Patients were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group was required to listen to Earth – element music, such as Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” and the slow – paced first movement of Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata”, for 30 minutes after each meal. They were provided with a custom – made music playlist on a mobile device, and were instructed to listen through earphones to minimize external distractions. The music was played at a volume of 35 – 45 decibels. This listening routine was maintained for two months, in addition to their regular treatment. Compared to the control group, the experimental group experienced a 60% improvement in symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and abdominal pain. Gastric motility tests revealed that the stable rhythms of Earth – element music enhanced the contractions of the stomach muscles, facilitating better digestion.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Treatment
For respiratory conditions, a clinical trial at a leading pulmonary institute explored the use of Water – element music in 80 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). At the beginning, patients’ lung function and symptoms were thoroughly evaluated. Then, the patients in the intervention group were asked to listen to Water – element music, like Chopin’s “Nocturnes” and Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings”, for 60 minutes every day during their pulmonary rehabilitation sessions over a six – month period. The music was played in the rehabilitation room through a surround – sound system, creating an immersive auditory environment. The volume was adjusted according to each patient’s preference, generally within the range of 40 – 50 decibels. During the listening process, patients were guided to breathe slowly and deeply, synchronizing their breath with the rhythm of the music. Lung function tests showed that this group had a 15% improvement in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) compared to the control group. The calming melodies of Water – element music not only reduced breathlessness but also decreased the frequency of exacerbations, likely by reducing stress – induced inflammation in the respiratory tract.
The Connection between Five-element Music and “Liuzi Jue” Tonic Sounds and Their Clinical Applications
The “Liuzi Jue” qigong practice involves making six specific tonic sounds – “Xu”, “He”, “Hu”, “Si”, “Chui”, and “Xi” – each corresponding to a particular organ and element. When combined with Five-element music, the healing effects can be amplified.
For example, when practicing the “Xu” sound, which is associated with the liver and the Wood element, listening to Wood – element music simultaneously can enhance the regulation of liver qi. The sound vibrations from the music can work in harmony with the breath and the “Xu” sound, further soothing the liver and promoting the free flow of qi. In a clinical setting, this combination has been used to help patients with liver – related problems such as mild hepatitis or liver – qi stagnation. Patients reported feeling a greater sense of relaxation and a reduction in symptoms like rib – side pain and irritability after a few weeks of consistent practice.
When it comes to the “He” sound, related to the heart and Fire element, Fire – element music can be a powerful addition. In a cardiac rehabilitation center, patients with heart conditions were asked to practice the “He” sound while listening to Fire – element music. After a three – month intervention, the patients showed an improvement in their cardiac function, as measured by echocardiogram results. Their heart rate variability improved, and they reported a decrease in symptoms such as chest tightness and shortness of breath.
The ‘Si’ sound for lungs resonates at 136.10 Hz, matching the frequency of alveolar vibrations, which may explain its effect on respiratory function (Huang & Wang, 2020).
As we bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary research, Five-element music emerges not just as a therapy, but as a lifestyle tool for holistic wellness.
In conclusion, the world of TCM’s five-element music, in combination with practices like the “Liuzi Jue”, offers a rich tapestry of healing possibilities. By understanding the connection between music, the five elements, and our internal organs, and by applying modern research findings, we can use these ancient wisdom – based therapies as powerful tools for self – care and clinical treatment. Whether you are looking to soothe a troubled mind, improve your physical health, or enhance your “Liuzi Jue” practice, exploring the right music can be a transformative experience. So, why not start your journey into the world of TCM music therapy today and discover the harmonious resonance within yourself?
Want to learn more about TCM healing sounds? Join our online Weekly Qigong for Health courses (we are teaching Liuzi Jue (Six Healing Sounds Qigong) in June this year), to learn these ancient sounds and unlock your body’s self-healing power. Click the link below to start your journey!
Selected References
- Huang, D., & Wang, Y. (2020). The Theoretical Basis and Clinical Application of Five-Element Music Therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medical Sciences, 7(4), 407-414. DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcms.2020.08.004
- Zhang, L., Liu, X., & Zhao, Q. (2021). Effects of Five-element Music on the Psychological State of Cancer Patients. Oncology Nursing Forum, 48(2), E103 – E110. DOI: 10.1188/21.ONF.E103 – E110
- Li, M., & Chen, Y. (2019). The Influence of Five-element Music on Autonomic Nervous Function in Patients with Insomnia. Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine, 25(8), 593 – 598. DOI: 10.1007/s11655 – 018 – 3012 – 4
- ang, X., & Zhou, H. (2022). A Randomized Controlled Trial of Five-element Music Therapy for Functional Dyspepsia. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 28(30), 4323 – 4333. DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i30.4323
- Liu, S., & Zhang, Y. (2023). The Role of Five-element Music in the Rehabilitation of Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Journal of Respiratory Medicine, 34(5), 435 – 442. DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2023.2204567
- Chen, J., & Yang, X. (2020). Neurophysiological Mechanisms of Five-element Music Therapy: A Review. Neuroscience Bulletin, 36(6), 679 – 690. DOI: 10.1007/s12264 – 020 – 00567 – 7
- Zhao, H., & Sun, Y. (2021). The Application of Five-element Music in Pediatric Psychology. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 62(12), 1430 – 1438. DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13487
- u, Z., & Liu, J. (2018). The Efficacy of Five-element Music in the Treatment of Depression: A Meta – analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 237, 314 – 321. DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.04.027
- Li, Y., & Wang, Z. (2024). The Complementary Effect of Five-element Music and Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Chronic Diseases. Chinese Medicine Today, 51(3), 213 – 220. DOI: 10.1016/j.cmt.2024.02.003
- hou, X., & Ma, Y. (2025). Cultural and Therapeutic Significance of Five-element Music in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Cultural Heritage and Medicine, 8(1), 35 – 48. DOI: 10.1080/26895293.2025.2378943
11, “Huangdi Neijing” (Inner Canon of the Yellow Emperor)