“Music can lift us out of depression or move us to tears- it’s a remedy, a tonic, orange juice for the ear. But for many of my neurological patients, music is even more–it can provide access, even when no medication can, to movement, to speech, to life. For them, music is not a luxury, but a necessity.”
Oliver Sacks, neurology professor, best-selling author, and physician
Music is powerful. It can evoke a wide range of emotions and memories. Music has the ability to energise us, calm us, and even heal us. While there is no denying the several benefits of music, did you know that music can also be used as a therapeutic tool? Music therapy is an actual thing. Music therapy is nothing but using music to address different physical, emotional, and cognitive needs.
As per studies conducted by American Music Therapy Association, music therapy is a clinical intervention that utilises music to achieve therapeutic goals. A trained and certified music therapist works with people to help them heal using music therapy. Music therapy can help with emotional well-being, cognitive functions like communication skills, social interaction, and pain management.
Music therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions and disorders such as depression and anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), traumatic brain injury, chronic pain, and even substance abuse. In this article, we will explore the benefits of music therapy and how it can be used to improve your overall well-being.
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What is Music Therapy and How Does It Work?
Music can evoke so many emotions – it can make you feel exhilarated or even despondent. Music can energise, calm, and if done in a therapeutic manner, it can even heal! How can music heal, you ask. Some experts use music as a therapeutic tool. Did you know that music therapy is a growing field? According to a report published in the National Library of Medicine, subjects exposed to music had a 70% higher likelihood of having pain relief than unexposed subjects. Music therapy is nothing but using music to address various physical, emotional, and cognitive needs.
What is Music Therapy?
When music is used for clinical purposes like reducing stress and improving one’s mood, it is referred to as music therapy. For this, a trained music therapist is needed who has the ability to work with individuals of all ages. A music therapist can address a wide range of needs.
1. Physical Rehabilitation
This includes improving motor skills, coordination, as well as strength.
2. Emotional Well-being
When music is used to manage stress, anxiety, and depression.
3. Cognitive Functions
Not many are aware that music can help with enhancing memory, attention, as well as improving one’s communication skills.
4. Social Interaction
Music therapy, when done correctly, has the power to improve social skills over a period of time.
5. Pain Management
Music therapy can help with managing pain and improving overall quality of life. It can help people find relief from physical discomfort and experience a sense of emotional well-being.
The Role of Music in Meditation
There is no denying that music can change the mood and atmosphere of a place. It is for this reason that music plays an important role in meditation. Music helps create a calm and peaceful atmosphere. By playing music that is soft and in beat with your body’s rhythm, your breathing can be regulated. Music can also help to slow down a person’s heart rate, relax them, and help reduce stress. The music you select – its melody and lyrics – can evoke specific emotions and thoughts. This allows individuals to get in the mood and focus on their inner thoughts and experiences.
Read more on: What is the best time to meditate?
Benefits of Music Therapy
Several studies have revealed that music therapy has numerous benefits. Here are a few.
1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Listening to music that can calm your nerves can not only help you feel relaxed, but also lower cortisol levels.
2. Improved Mood
Music has the ability to instantly lift a person’s mood and boost feelings of happiness and well-being.
3. Enhanced Cognitive Function
If you’re having trouble with memory or find your attention span dwindling, music therapy can help. It can also enhance an individual’s problem-solving abilities.
4. Increased Social interaction
Music therapy can help build better social connections and improve communication skills.
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How to Get Started with Music Therapy
Has music therapy piqued your interest? If yes, the first step should be to find a qualified music therapist. Once you have found a therapist, they can assess your situation and create a personalised treatment plan for you. A typical music therapy session involves listening to music, playing instruments, singing, or a combination of these activities.
Music therapy is a powerful tool that can be used to address a wide range of physical, emotional, and cognitive needs. By incorporating music into therapeutic interventions, individuals can experience the many benefits of this holistic approach to healing. At SoulSensei, we have content on sound therapy and we also host live sessions with Immersive Sound Experience so users can benefit from direct contact with industry leaders.
Sources
- Music Therapy: Types and Benefits : Cleveland Clinic
- Music Therapy for Mental Health: Save The Music Foundation
- The Power of Music: How Music Affects Our Brain and Body
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common techniques used in music therapy?
Playing instruments, singing, or even composing new music are some of the common techniques used in music therapy. At the beginning, the therapist evaluates a person’s musical skills and preferences to tailor the therapy sessions to their needs.
Can music therapy be used to treat specific conditions or disorders?
Music therapy can help with a few conditions and disorders like depression, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), traumatic brain injury, and chronic pain.
How can I find a qualified music therapist?
You can find a qualified music therapist by searching for them through Indian Association of Music Therapy (IAMT).
