Music has been used for treatment purposes since the earliest times. In the bible, King Saul was treated for depression by listening to the harp. Ancient Greeks believed that music could influence the body and soul by implementing law and order. There have been practical concepts and testimonials that show the benefit of music in the field of medicine, an example of it is using music to help patients before getting their surgery. In the field of education it is used to teach and help students learn better by helping them focus better. Music therapy started to be used after World War II and the term was officially used in the 1950’s.
The incorporation of technology has now made music more accessible through wellness music which refers to any music that makes you feel better. Music which is only an intentional therapy is being drastically reinvented. Musicians are now creating music for wellbeing. Meditation applications are evolving to wellness music. More research is being done involving music and its effect on the brain. The British Academy of Sound Therapy found that 78 minutes daily is optimal for improving mental health. Recent researchers are also researching how music can improve social skills in kids with autism. This trend accelerated as a result of the pandemic, when people turned to music to help them cope with their mental health issues.
Do you require motivation or encouragement? Look for songs with uplifting messages, perhaps featuring a character facing adversity. Do you have a lot of tension and stress? Look for songs with guided imagery that are soft and melodic. Are you ready to let go of the emotional baggage you’ve been carrying? Find a song that you can relate to and that can help you release your emotions while also comforting you with its rhythmic melody.
Resources:
Music for Wellness | The Whole U (uw.edu)
Wellness Music | Global Wellness Trends (globalwellnesssummit.com)
By: Royd Guyon