Music, rhythm and brain health

 When my mom was in early dementia, my friend Conrad, who taught yoga, suggested breathing practices - but I didn't live near enough to help her implement something new ... 

Sound healer Jonathan Goldman suggests humming for ~ 5 minutes each day, while Jim Donovan bespeaks studies showing meditation or chanting a mantra (Sa Ta Na Ma) with accompanying mudra (hand positions) benefits the brain and slows the onsert of degeneration.  I now do Wim Hof's breathing exercises several times a week, and have several singing practices.

Mama Lois at 38

In the 90s, I took 'How Music Heals' as part of Laurie Riley's Music for Healing and Transition certification program. We learned how music can reduce pain, lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, stabilize the heart rate, promote well being and enhance the memory.  Music benefits both the performers and listeners!

Wedding harper

Mental Health

 I was intrigued by studies showing familiar music, esp. That from our younger years, helps place folks in time and aids memory. In contrast, less familiar and arrhythmic music is best when playing for someone in their last days (Thanatology), and that with a steady rhythm can stabilize the heart. 

My dad played piano and sang old favorites most evenings, and we often played and sang together throughout my youth and childhood.  We noticed a decline in my mom's memory after his passing, and more clarity after music events at her Spayed Living! She enjoyed music, but didn't sing or play herself, so lost the benefit of those daily tunes. I love being invited to play harp at care facilities and events!

Physical Benefits 

 At a folk harp retreat in the mid 90s, harper Ron Price, who had a debilitating neurological disorder, told us that his symptoms abated when he played an hour each day, but began to return when he skipped several days - the harp sits against the chest and stimulates the thymus gland. Ron had begin taking small therapy harps into care facilities, so patients could play themselves, and receive more benefits.

If you sing, play an instrument, or have a mindfulness practice, you're already ahead of the game! If your practice is more sporadic, consider adding 15-30 minutes a day for a week, and see how you feel!

Do you incorporate music and or breathwork in your weekly activities?

Autumn events

 This fall, Rowan and I have been invited to provide music for several Events, starting with my son's wedding at a county park near the Columbia river!! 

Dalena and Josh

Family arrived the day before to help set up, and though it sprinkled in early afternoon, it cleared for the ceremony, and friends carried Rowan and the music down the hill! Josh made the arch (they'll set it up at home - and I want one for my entrance!) Dalena entered to 'You Say it Best,' and I played 'the Confluence' as they and their 4 young adult kids poured sand into a holder, signifying the joining of two families. 

It was lovely to see all the friends and family who gathered to celebrate the special day! 

In early October, I was asked to play for the Illuminating Hope event by a friend who was going to share her story. Henderson House provides support for victims of domestic abuse and violence. As it was market day, they hoped music would draw more to visit the plaza nearby.

Rowan in the Civic plaza

We played first, setting a nurturing tone for the event. There were purple ribbons honoring the 1000 women HH served each year, and local businesses donated addiction items for fundraising. 

The following day,  we were invited to play for Tea hosted by the Friends of the Senior Center. Over 40 women (and one man) attended, many in delightful hats! 

Tea Time 🎶 

It was a beautiful fall day and fun event.  Youth from the catering pathway class groom the high school served the attendees, and there were lots of smiles. 

A friend recently inquired about harp lessons, and I brought Tullie home from storage so we can begin. Percy was intrigued

...

Percy and Tuilleadh

This afternoon we're harping for a wedding at the local catholic church - I'm playing 7 of the 10 pieces! 

Do you love harp music? 

(Or always wanted to play?)