March is Music Therapy Month

March is Music Therapy Month in Canada, a time to educate Canadians on the many benefits of music therapy.

What is music therapy?
Music therapy is a healing modality in which accredited musical therapists (generally with a referral from a health care practitioner) create unique treatment plans for patients. Treatment plans may include such interventions as singing, playing instruments, rhythmic-based activities, listening to music, imagery, and improvisation. 

It is used for a wide variety of conditions, for everything from snoring to stroke recovery. According to the Canadian Association for Music Therapy, some of the uses for music therapy include:

• acquired brain injury
• autism and other pervasive development disabilities
• emotional traumas
• geriatric care
• hearing impairments
• mental health
• pain control
• speech and language impairments
• substance abuse
• victims of abuse

Accredited music therapists may have their own private practices, or they may work out of hospitals, community centres, correctional centres, schools, hospices, and substance abuse and addictions centres.

If you’re interested in learning more about music therapy or to find an accredited musical therapist, check out the Canadian Association for Music Therapy.

What type of music is best for you?
Even if you do not have a specific health concern, music can offer many benefits. Plus, different types of music have different benefits. Whether it’s improving mood or even increasing weight loss, there’s likely a type of music you want to try.

1. Classical music revitalizes old brain cells and lifts depression.
2. Rock ’n’ roll lifts bad moods and negative emotions.
3. Techno music speeds breathing and circulation (good for exercising).
4. Any enjoyable music can make exercise easier and increase weight loss.
5. Gentle singing makes sick babies less irritable and less likely to cry.
6. Music from past happy times lifts spirits and improves moods.
7. Silence in music increases brain activity and activates memory.
8. Jazz, piano, and harp music reduce chronic pain.
9. Music training affects brain development and improves memory.
10. Any type of music can enhance heart health.