Today I'm thankful for music! Regardless of whether I'm happy, sad, or stressed I love music. When I left home at 17 years old I had $200 in my pocket, a suitcase, and case of cassettes (yes I said cassettes). They were my comfort when I was so far away from everything and everyone I knew. I'd pop in Led Zepplin, U2, The Doors, Run DMC, or the Beastie Boys and not worry about anything for that moment.
Now I've moved on to CD's and downloads but the results are still the same for me. I can turn it up and tune everything else out for a bit. When I'm going thru IV treatments; whether they are chemo, iron, or steroids I put on my headphones and crank up the music. It makes the time I have to spend in that chair go by so much faster.
When fatigue is riding me and Lupus is winning the day music is what helps ease the aches and pains. If I don't have any get up go I have a soundtrack for that. It consists of music that makes me feel good, aggressive, and like I can take over the world even if I can't at that moment.
Music is my chosen form of therapy. It is definitely a stress reliever for me. I can go for a drive and turn up Pantera, Nonpoint, Metallica, or Disturbed and let it all go! I feel better when my drive is over. I was also thrilled to find some research on music therapy and chronic illness as well.
Music therapy uses music to address a number of emotional, cognitive and social issues in people of all ages. It is often used with people who have disabilities or illness, but the healing benefits of music can be enjoyed by anyone and at any age. The process of making and listening to music can provide a channel for communication and expression that may go beyond what is easily expressed in words.
Music Therapy is used for many different issues, from stress relief to mental, emotional and behavioral problems. It has been shown to help treat depression and anxiety, and is often used to help elderly clients deal with memory loss associated with diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia. Music Therapy is also used to relieve pain, especially related to labor or terminal illness.*
http://www.unh.edu/health-services/ohep/holistic_music.html *
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