1 Music Therapy

2 Three Main Questions How does Music Therapy help people to relax? Who can benefit from Music Therapy? How do you choose music to enhance relaxation?

3 How Does Music Therapy Help People to Relax? The Biochemical Theory –Music stimulates the cerebral cortex and Autonomic Nervous System, which sends vibrations and impulses through the body The Entrainment Theory –Sounds are received through the human energy field and entrain the body’s rhythms The Metaphysical Theory –Music is a gift from God and connects people together (For example…)For example…

4 How Does Music Therapy Help People to Relax? Connects thinking and feeling Can be used in conjunction with other relaxation techniques –Music + Other techniques = A whole that is greater than the sum of its parts –PMR, Visualization Reduces temporary feelings of anxiety

5 Who can benefit from Music Therapy? People with illness –Reduces symptoms of distress –Parkinson’s disease and cancer People while driving –In highly frustrating traffic Workers in high stress jobs –Less stress in the newsroom

6 Who can benefit from Music Therapy? Prisoners –Less stress, more relaxation The elderly –Alzheimer’s Disease –Less agitated behaviors Pregnant women and new mothers –Increased relaxation in childbirth Athletes –Mood regulation

7 How do you choose music to enhance relaxation? Rhythm/Beat Individualized music you enjoy Context of listening Beneficial for desired outcomes Volume Meaning