by Naomi Kenny

Created on: April 13, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Music Therapy sounds formal and technical, but in reality music therapy can be found in our everyday lives. Not only can it be found there, but it should be there. "Music sooths the savage beast" is an old saying that research is proving true in our bodies and lives.

Music effects us physically and emotionally. This can have positive or negative results. Hard rock has been demonstrated to increase tension and stress in its listeners. This reduces concentration, can increase pain, cause headaches, increase abnormal behaviors, and agitates ADHA and Alzheimer's patients. On the positive side music can calm, increase concentration, lower blood pressure, increase productivity, ease anxiety and increase positive emotions.

Research has demonstrated that the follow are physiological effects of music:

Brain waves can be sped up or slowed down based on the beat of the music listened to. The effects of shifting brian wave speed with music increased the brains ability to perform this rapid shift even after the music has ended.

Breathing and heart rate are controlled by the brain wave messages. Using a calming beat can reduce the effects of chronic stress and reduce the damage it does to our bodies. Joggers and runners use a rapid beat to help increase their heart beats and breathing as they sync with the music.

State of Mind is effected as endorphins are released. These amazing brain chemicals increase the positive feelings, optimism, creativity and reduce depression, anxiety, reduce the pain response and the effects of stress.

You don't need to take a class or go to a therapist to receive the benefits from music. Start by paying attention to how you feel about different music, does rock get you moving and give you energy, does country music calm you, does classical make you sleepy and relaxed. Now create your own play list for the needs of your day. Remember to use calming music when you begin to feel tense and at night time to ease you into a restful healthy sleep. Music can be your secret weapon against the stress of everyday life and to being more productive and positive.

Einstein said, "I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music. . . I get most joy in life out of music."

Visit the American Music Therapy Association's website for more information.

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