The Countless Health Benefits of Music
Clinical studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that the sound of music:
-alleviates pain
-improves mood and mobility of people with Parkinson's disease
-reduces the need for sedatives and pain relievers during and after surgery
-decreases nausea during chemotherapy
-decreases length of hospital stay and increases weight gain among premature infants
-helps patients participate in medical treatment that shortens hospital stays
-enhances care-giving behavior
-relieves anxiety
-lowers blood pressure
-increases heart rate variability (increased levels reflect less stress and greater resilience)
-eases depression
-enhances concentration and creativity
-increases short-term spatial-temporal reasoning abilities (used in art, math, architecture, engineering, science, and everyday activity)
The above is an adapted excerpt from the following article at Prevention.com:
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What is Guided Imagery?
Guided imagery is intentional daydreaming whose aim is to magnify the positive healing aspects of the mind/body connection. It can decrease pain, lower high blood pressure, improve immunity, and refresh your outlook. Guided imagery can clear your mind, settle your emotions, relax your body, open your heart, awaken your spirit, and help you make positive changes. It's a valuable self-care tool that empowers and heals. Guided relaxation calms and balances the body and mind for optimal well being.
Belleruth Naparstek's website Health Journeys provides a comprehensive look at the benefits of Guided Imagery:
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Joyful Music Promotes Heart Health
A University of Maryland School of Medicine study concludes that music, like laughter, causes tissue in the inner lining of blood vessels to expand in order to increase blood flow.
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Building Baby's Brain: The Role of Music
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Music to Your Heart
A University of Florida study had adults suffering from hypertension listen to 30 minutes of Indian, Celtic, or Classical music per day while breathing slowly. They found that the subjects' average systolic readings were reduced by music.
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Tune Out Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain
Glasgow University in Scotland found that women with Rheumatoid Arthritis could walk 30 percent longer while listening to music.