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…)

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