Discover music therapy

 

Music therapy is a non-traditional therapeutic resource in the health sector. The World Federation of Music Therapy defines it as the use of music and / or its elements (sound, rhythm, melody and harmony) by a qualified music therapist with a client or group in a therapeutic process. This process is designed to facilitate relevant therapeutic goals such us communication, relationship, learning, mobility, speech, organisation, addressing the physical, mental, social and cognitive needs.

Music therapy aims to develop the physical potential and to restore functions of the individual so that he or she reaches a better intra-and inter-organisation and consequently, a better quality of life through prevention, rehabilitation and treatment.

The use of music to improve health has been known since ancient times. It is already registered on papyri of the Egyptian civilisation. Music therapy as a scientific discipline was developed in the mid-twentieth century. Since then, more and more research is done in this field and its application areas are expanding quickly. There are scientific publications that demonstrate the benefits of music therapy in healthy people, which is observed in the reduction of stress, measured by decreasing cortisol (stress hormone) levels, after participating in music therapy. Music therapy also improves communication and emotional aspects.