Music Therapy

  
Photo Credit:Mikala Gallo

Can music be used as a remedy? Recent studies have shown that music has a profound impact on the mind and body. It has been used as a cure for the psyche. “Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.” The American Association for Music Therapy was founded in 1971 and its purpose is to promote the development of therapy.

“Those who practice music therapy are finding a benefit in using music to help cancer patients, children with ADD, and others, and even hospitals are beginning to use music and music therapy to help with pain management, to help ward off depression, to promote movement, to calm patients, to ease muscle tension, and for many other benefits that music and music therapy can bring. This is not surprising, as music affects the body and mind in many powerful ways.” 

Music can affect the brain waves, which can help prove that Music Therapy is helpful. When one listens to music with a fast and strong beat, it can fuel brainwaves to vibrate in sync with the beats. This can create more attentive thinking and concentration. When music is at a slower tempo it brings a more calming state of mind.  Research shows that when music brings change in brainwave activity levels, it can also allow the brain to shift speeds. The brainwaves alter other bodily functions as well, like ones breathing and heart rate. Music can also bring a positive state of mind. This reduces stress and depression.

Music therapy has increased in popularity over time. This means that more hospitals and clinics are using music therapy for a pain management and stress reduction. One must know though, that music can be used for a daily relaxer and as a stimulator when feeling exhausted. So, can music be used as a remedy? Yes, indeed it can. It can be used as a cure for the mind, the body, and the soul.