REPORT #1740
"If they become tearful or happy or are able to access some other spot in their mind, then that’s good."
Judy Ranney
Music Practitioner
HEALING POWER OF MUSIC
MELODIES BATTLE CANCER: About 1.5 million people will be diagnosed with cancer in 2008. Thanks to advancements in research, the arsenal of weapons against this deadly disease is bigger than ever. One of those weapons has been around for ages -- music therapy. Ancient Greek philosophers spread the idea that music could heal both body and soul, and Native Americans have used singing and chanting as part of their healing rituals for centuries. This type of therapy was formally introduced in the United States when music was used to treat World War II soldiers suffering from shell shock.
A DIFFERENT FIELD OF MEDICINE: The American Music Therapy Association defines music therapy as "an established health profession in which music is used within a therapeutic relationship to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals." There is mounting scientific evidence that when used as a supplement to conventional treatment, music used in a therapeutic way can reduce pain, relieve chemotherapy-induced nausea, relieve stress and provide an overall sense of well-being. Studies have even shown music therapy to lower heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate. The "Mozart Effect" has been popularized recently -- the idea that simply listening to the music of Mozart can sharpen the mind and help autistic patients.
More than 70 colleges and universities now have degree programs approved by the American Music Therapy Association, and there are thousands of professional music therapists working in health care setting across the country. Some music therapy services are even covered by health insurance!
HOW IT WORKS: Music therapists cater each session to the needs of the individual or group. They also use a range of instruments including harp, guitar and keyboard. Therapists use techniques like performing music, helping patients make music, writing songs together and talking about lyrics. One program at the Center for Music Therapy in Austin, Texas, uses music and motor exercises to help individuals with movement disorders like Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy strengthen walking, coordination, balance and speech skills.
SMART WOMAN CONTACT:
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center
Tampa, FL.
(813) 745-4673
