Music for good health

There are many ways music therapy is used by a trained and certified music therapist, whether you are making music or listening to it, the benefits can be measurable. Thankfully, one need not be trained to make music a daily option.

In a time when viruses and outbreaks dominate headlines, it provides a sweet reprieve to focus on the many health benefits that come from experiencing music. Music is used as a therapeutic treatment method prescribed therapists for patients to help them overcome emotional, social, intellectual and physical handicaps. It has the power to reduce stress, can promote healing and well being, and it has even been used as a special form of therapy for people suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. As a means of expression, music is very helpful in treating children with autism. The complete benefits of music therapy are still under study, but the areas of it’s healing properties is expanding rapidly as more and more therapies are being utilized for different treatment purposes.

A study published by JAMA Pediatrics found that there is a link between music and reducing stress and anxiety levels in pediatric patients. The study included 42 children from the age of three to eleven who were being treated in pediatric emergency rooms. Researchers found that the children who listened to soothing, relaxing type music during an IV insertion demonstrated less anxiety and reported markedly less pain than the patients who did not receive music therapy.

There is mounting scientific evidence that music therapy provides relief to patients suffering from illnesses with debilitating and/or constant pain and even fatal diseases such as fibromyalgia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. Early results are very promising and are bringing new hope to the patients and families of those afflicted by these crippling diseases.

Broadway comes to the Niswonger stage this Saturday with two performances of Finding Neverland at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The Live Pit Orchestra will provide the music that is featured on the original Broadway cast recording. Experience it live, if not for the sheer entertainment, but as therapy for your overall health.

“I found this show to be an escape from our chaotic reality, only to realize there’s a Peter Pan in all of us. The characters and the music bring you into this world of possibility and what a magical world that could be.” Ed Drantched, WKBW TV ABC Morning Show