In Episode 2 - Music, Mita and I discuss the various ways music affects the brain, reduces anxiety, improves mood, allows for better sleep, reduces shortness of breath (in singing), helps build confidence and self esteem, improves posture, increases breath capacity, boosts immune response and it's kind of a great time.
Their are some scientific studies on how music can improve brain function and/or overall mood with patients suffering from Alzheimer's and Dementia, Autism (which Mita has seen personally affect her son), Covid/Long Covid sufferers, COPD and emphysema patients with overall lung function. Melancholia can be worrisome if people surround themselves with too much emotional music, and we learned how to recognize the signs within ourselves when music can "cause" adverse responses based upon particular moods or states of mind. Music helps people who may be sedentary or suffer from physical impairments made worse by physical exertion, as it gets the healthy endorphins flowing without too much physical strain on the body.
We laughed at the term "runner's high" because we both don't get to experience that. Eastern medicine encourages music therapy, as it impacts positive effects on the body parts that may be hurting/in need. Unfortunately, for a lot of Americans, this alternative type of therapy is not covered by most major insurance companies, even though the benefits can be impressive We found a lot of funding for keeping the music in our schools is a threat, and the effects of this would be detrimental.
We then discussed how me met on a singing app, which offers us ways to cope with the stressors of everyday life. It opens up pathways for friendships with people nationwide, as it is not feasible to meet up for karaoke across continents. Connections were made with Mita and a former classmate, and she can roll her RRR's with the best of them..
This quote touched us:
"Songs and melodies have the power to inspire people, guide their actions, and aid in the formation of identities. Music can unite people – even if absorbed in solitude, capture your imagination and boost creativity. A person who has been affected by music is not alone. They are among the masses trying to find their role in society and form connections with others. Thankfully, while it can help us “find ourselves,” music influence on society can also be seen in:
– Providing a platform for the underrepresented to speak out – Affecting mood and inspiration – Helping us cope by encouraging us to express ourselves through movement and dancing – Bridging a divide in communication – Creating a venue for education and idea-sharing" - savethemusic.org
So listen to music and let it move your soul. Use it as a healthy, mostly free, coping strategy to help with all sorts of issues and let it be your words when you may be unable to speak.
If you are at a stage in your journey where music is TOO intense or causes too much pain, grief or stimuli, please take heed and listen to YOUR body. Sometimes, during different levels of recovery, our bodies change. What may have once been soothing and comfortable may now seem irritating and sad. Change is okay. Not following social norms is okay. And you are okay, too. Follow you head, your heart and your gut. Make choices that fit best into your best outlook plan. ♥
Helpful websites:
https://pulmonaryhypertensionnews.com/pulmonary-hypertension-social-clips/singing-for-lung-health-how-can-singing-improve-your-breathing/
