Healing Powers of Music
Many a great musician have talked about the healing powers of music. For example, Prince described music as “healing.” He said that “Music holds things together.” And Elton John said, “Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours.” As can be seen by these comments, there’s no question, there are healing powers of music!
Music Touches Us Emotionally
There’s no doubt that music can touch us emotionally. And there’s growing evidence that music can do more than just lift our spirits. In fact, music may have healing powers. Furthermore, studies have shown that music can promote relaxation. It can bring about positive mood changes and reduce anxiety. Not to mention, listening to music may even help distract from pain associated with many illnesses.
Music Can Improve Quality of Life
The growing evidence that music may be a powerful therapeutic tool has caught the attention of medical practitioners. According to Harvard Health , “A growing body of research attests that that music therapy is more than a nice perk. It can improve medical outcomes and quality of life in a variety of ways. Listening to music reduces anxiety associated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It can also quell nausea and vomiting for patients receiving chemotherapy.” It’s no wonder that Ray Charles once said, “Music is powerful. As people listen to it, they can be affected. They respond.”
In recent years, there have been several studies that examine the possible benefits of music for cancer patients. And at the same time as this body of research continues to grow, music remains on the forefront as a wonderful resource. In fact, some even consider music as being beneficial throughout a patient’s cancer journey!
Music Stimulates Areas of the Brain Which Control Emotions
Music in general has a large effect on us. It can influence many aspects of our life, from our mood to our thoughts. It can make us smile when we are down or lift our spirits when we are sad. According to St. Judes, “It stimulates areas of the brain which control our emotions, memory, and physical movement. Music also increases the serum melatonin levels the body uses to relax. It causes the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine which activates reward centers in the brain. The reward system is part of the nervous system responsible for positive emotions and associative learning.”
Billy Joel once said, “I think music in itself is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves music.”
Music Therapists – Their Role in Integrative Medicine
Music therapists work closely with the patient’s care team. They determine what music therapy approaches are appropriate for the patient. Many hospitals offer music therapy as part of a patient’s plan of care. Check with your child’s health care team to find out if they offer music therapy.
In the meantime, encourage your child to listen to music. Music is particularly helpful during the long hours of treatment. It can provide distraction to help take their mind off their fear, pain, or anxiety. The great news is there are so many ways that they can listen to music. Electronics like the ones Mikey’s Way provides, can offer easy access to music. An iPod, laptop, or tablet are all good options.
References:
Harvard Health Blog, Healing Through Music November 5, 2015, Beverly Merz, Executive Editor, Harvard Women’s Health Watch November 5, 2015
St. Judes, Music Therapy, “Music Therapy for Pediatric Cancer – together (stjude.org) Reviewed June 2018
Disclaimer: This information and the content on this site is general education. It does not replace medical advice. Please contact your health care team for medical advice.