Music Therapy
Music has been shown for years to help people recover from both physical and mental illnesses. Next time you’re having a hard day, listen to some of your favourite tunes.
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is an evidence-based treatment that involves using music to help heal. It has been shown to help with numerous types of ailments including heart conditions, depression and anxiety, autism, substance abuse and addiction, and Alzheimer’s disease.
It has also been shown to help lower blood pressure, improve memory, improve coping, reduce stress and related symptoms due to PTSD, and improve self-esteem.
What’s great about it is you don’t need any formal background in music to benefit from it.
Do It Yourself
Although professional therapy (see below) may be beneficial, HIMbody recommends that you take a DIY approach. What music do you enjoy? Do you have any favourite artists, composers, or bands?
Contrary to what some people may think, music to soothe the mind does not have to be Mozart or any other famous classical composer. Usually to soothe your mind, it often just involves listening to YOUR favourite music. For example, a UK study found that the songs deemed most effective for music therapy were:
We Will Rock You, by Queen
Three Little Birds, by Bob Marley
Amazing Grace (various versions)
Another Brick in the Wall, by Pink FLoyd
You Are My Sunshine (various versions)
Even Eminem was near the top of the list. So although relaxing classical music has been demonstrated to help with stress and anxiety, it really comes down to your own musical preferences and what impacts you the most.
Finding a Professional Music Therapist
If you’d like to explore getting professional music therapy, please use the links below to find a therapist in your local region.
Canada (by province/region)
British Columbia
Alberta
Saskatchewan
Manitoba
Ontario
Quebec
Atlantic
Register now to receive personalized advice and product recommendations related to other relaxation techniques.
