Music as a Healing Tool
Backed up by medical research (see Sources & References, below), Barry Goldstein shows us that music can be used as a healing tool. Music is noninvasive, low-cost, has no negative side effects, and does not interfere with medical treatment. Used appropriately, it can support heart rate variability (HRV), which underlines the power of the heart-brain connection. Music has been shown to:
- Lower anxiety
- Lower stress
- Improve depression
- Improve pain
- Improve mood
- Improve quality of life
- Improve heart rate
- Improve respiratory function
- Improve blood pressure
- Lessen nausea
- Lessen vomiting
- Improve cognitive abilities
- Enhance immune function
Research suggests that playing music can increase the production of serotonin and dopamine. Research also shows that music can be an important tool for stress management because it can reduce the production of stress hormones.
“Music can assist in creating a more balanced, stress-free environment where the physical body can repair and the emotional and mental bodies can rest.”
Musical Prescriptions for Healing
He shows us how reaching a relaxed state through listening to music, one’s body, mind, and spirit can move back into balance. For each of the following conditions, Barry offers an explanation of it within the context of music, as well as a musical prescription and suggested music:
- Alzheimer’s
- ADHD
- Autism
- Bereavement and grief
- Cancer
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Dementia
- Dental pain and anxiety
- Depression
Barry provides sample playlists of songs for:Â
- Gratitude
- Joy
- Inspiration
- Peace
- Relaxation
- Motivation
By learning to use the principles that Barry describes in this book, you can learn how to use this simple but profound tool to create a healing environment for you and your child. It’s fun!
About Barry Goldstein
With over three decades of profound impact, Barry Goldstein stands at the intersection of music and healing as a visionary composer and sound expert. His Grammy Award-winning production and vibrational expertise bridge artistic expression and scientific innovation. Barry’s collaborations with industry luminaries such as Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Joe Dispenza, Dave Asprey, and other transformational leaders underscore his unique ability to harness music as a powerful tool for emotional and cognitive wellness.
In corporate workshops and healthcare facilities, Barry introduces ‘Acousticeuticals™,’ a term he coined to describe his innovative products that merge sound with health benefits to improve well-being, reduce stress, and foster productivity. His music is widely used in hospitals, hospices, and medical practices, and continues to be the focus of cutting-edge research into its health benefits.
Barry is the author of The Secret Language of the Heart: How to Use Music, Sound, and Vibration as Tools for Healing and Personal Transformation.
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Sources & References
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Barnhill, E. Neural connectivity, music, and movement: a response to Pat Amos. Front Integr Neurosci. 2013 Apr 24;7:29.
Chanda, M.L., et al. The neurochemistry of music. Trends Cogn Sci. 2013 Apr;17(4):179-93.
Chang, E.T., et al. The effects of music on the sleep quality of adults with chronic insomnia using evidence from polysomnographic and self-reported analysis: a randomized control trial. Int J Nurs Stud. 2012 Aug;49(8):921-30.
Gadberry, A.L. Steady beat and state anxiety. J Music Ther. 2011 Fall;48(3):346-56.
Garza-Villarreal, E.A., et al. Music reduces pain and increases functional mobility in fibromyalgia. Front Psychol. 2014 Feb 11:5:90.
Grape, C., et al. Does singing promote well-being?: An empirical study of professional and amateur singers during a singing lesson. Integr Physiol Behav Sci. 2003 Jan-Mar;38(1):65-74.
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Resources
Books
Campbell, Dan. The Mozart Effect: Tapping the Power of Music to Heal the Body, Strengthen the Mind and Unlock the Creative Spirit. Quill, 2001.
Goldstein, Barry. The Secret Language of the Heart: How to Use Music, Sound, and Vibration as Tools for Healing and Personal Transformation. Hierophant Publishing, 2016.
Peretz, Isabelle and Zatorre, Robert. The Cognitive Neuroscience of Music. Oxford University Press, 2003.
