Global Music Theory

Category: Music and Health

Articles and ideas that touch on the topics of music and health.

  • The Sound of Belonging: What Ancient Music Teaches Us About Modern Well‑Being

    The Sound of Belonging: What Ancient Music Teaches Us About Modern Well‑Being

    I’ll admit it: I tried to write this article with ChatGPT. It felt hypocritical, and frankly, the result wasn’t very good. The AI writing read smoothly on the surface, but it lacked substance and became extremely repetitive.

    This is a good thing. AI’s downfall is an opportunity for me to write my own words on the all‑too‑apt topic of “communication.”

    My focus is music and the sonic experience, which for this article has bled over into communication at large. The seed for this article came from reading How Musical Is Man by John Blacking and his discussion of the Venda people and their musical traditions. He described their performances of ritual music and dance, and how the entire community participated. It made me think about how rich and layered those performances must be for them—how music, in that context, is not just sound but a living expression of belonging.

    I’ve written a short book for composers that explores how music is organized and the roles it can play across the globe. The book is called Formative Forces in Sound. If you are interested, it’s available on Amazon here for $0.99 www.amazon.com/formativeforcesinsound

    Where the Venda integrate layers of history, belief, relationships (familial and otherwise), group dance, and group singing into a single performance, I have some headphones. I listen to Fenge Suave or Charles Ives, skipping around and listening without precision. The Venda ritual is complex and reaches deep; my musical experience often passes by almost without notice. That is the difference between a rich (or “thick”) and a thin musical performance.

    What struck me most is that ancient music wasn’t merely entertainment. It was a technology of belonging. It tied individuals to each other, to their ancestors, to their environment, and to shared meaning. And that is precisely the thread running through our modern crisis of well‑being: a loss of belonging woven through our soundscapes and our communications.

    The Dimensions of Time and Space

    As I pondered these differences, I landed on another aspect that makes these two musical experiences so distinct: space and time. For the Venda, the music, the dance, and the words are here and now, transmitting information in the act of creation and performance. The breath, the dust, the smells, and the vibrations are all present in that immediate performance.

    My experience listening on YouTube, however, is neither close nor immediate. The musicians who composed or performed the music may be dead or, at the very least, exist in the past—sometimes the distant past. As far as proximity, they probably recorded the music thousands of miles from where I am now, in a cultural context vastly different from my own. The Venda share a single, unified cultural context.

    When sound is local and embodied, it reinforces connection. When sound is distant and flattened, it loses many of the signals that tell us we belong.

    The Layers of Information

    Listening to music alone on headphones is what I call “thin” communication. The music is carrying only a fraction of the information it is capable of delivering.

    For example, when I listen to Mahler’s 10th symphony as background music while working, I am only receiving a small amount of what Mahler’s music could convey. If I were in an orchestra hall listening to a live performance, there is a good chance I would increase the amount of “information” I receive. Furthermore, if Mahler himself were in the hall conducting the piece, there would be even more information conveyed. To take it a step further, if I were playing violin in the orchestra, I would experience another layer of information from the music and the group experience of performing together, understanding better what Mahler was trying to express as he conducted the group.

    An ultimate layer would have been to be with Mahler, discussing the music as he wrote and developed it through creation to performance. Then I would be receiving the rich layers of communication from the music—something more akin to what the Venda experience.

    In ancient or tribal settings, those layers also carried social meaning—affirming identity, reinforcing norms, coordinating cooperation. In other words: belonging.

    The Price of Convenience

    On the one hand, I am glad I can easily listen to Mahler’s 10th with the click of a button. But I think it is in that convenience where I pay a price: the access often provides a cheap, plastic, disposable version that is barely worth paying attention to.

    Ninety‑nine percent of my musical interactions throughout any given year are of this “cheap plastic disposable” kind. Yet, even through this flattened and cheapened version, I can still get chills and be deeply affected by the music. That just shows the raw power of music and how much more powerful in‑person, rich performances and participation can be.

    I have been lucky enough to experience firsthand extraordinarily rich musical communication—in my rock band, in orchestras, witnessing Native American ritual performances, and through my own compositions. I am simply realizing that the vast majority of my musical interactions today are solitary experiences that lack the possible information and layers that music held before recordings existed.

    The Great Thinning

    This “cheapening” is not just happening to music; it is happening to all types of communication.

    Intimate, in‑person conversations with immediate family and loved ones have been replaced by written letters, phone calls, Skype, text messages, and now AI predictive text messages. The communication went from sharing breath, timbre, facial expressions, and body language to an algorithm’s best guess as to what you want to express. Communication evolved from the singular confluence of breath, articulation, body language, and setting to a computer that types some words on a screen to be delivered purely visually at any distance.

    It is my view that the consequences of this path toward communication convenience have played a significant role in humanity’s well‑being, partly because it is so far removed from how humans evolved. Humans thrived with these rich, layered forms of communication, and now we are trying to cope with thin, distant, and impersonal communications.

    When I analyze the communications I receive (actively or passively), they fall into three primary categories:

    • Businesses trying to get my attention: the dings and beeps of marketers vying for attention.
    • Entertainment content: listening to/watching news, podcasts, and other media.
    • Personal messages: a message from a family member or work colleague.

    By far, the category that dominates my time and attention is entertainment and media.

    In our world of global distribution, we have stretched the limits of time and space, which has effectively shut out our local and immediate family voices. The family history has fallen by the wayside in lieu of some influencer’s latest hot take. We listen with rapture to the goings‑on of famous strangers more often than we do our own kin. The flow of human communication has shifted from intimate close relationships to one‑way broadcasts from distantly located strangers.

    The deeper danger is that this shift erodes our sense of belonging. Thin communication keeps us informed, but thick communication keeps us human.

    Communication as Purpose

    So far, I have proposed that communication (speech, text, visual, musical, physical/body, etc.) has gone from being richly layered—delivered by people we personally know and interact with in the same time and space—to being thin—delivered by strangers who are not in our same moment or space.

    But I would like to posit one more idea: that perhaps communication is a fundamental part of being human. I’ll go one step further: perhaps communication is the “meaning or purpose” of life. When I probed around the question of communication, it became obvious that most things that matter to humans could be considered communication in some form or another. Therefore, I began to see communication as foundational to human well‑being.

    Belonging, too, emerges from communication. The thicker the communication, the stronger the belonging.

    This leads to two essential questions:

    1. How does one maximize thick (rich, layered) communication in one’s life, and conversely, how does one avoid an excess of thin communication?
    2. Does having thick communication improve one’s well‑being, and does too much thin communication decrease it?

    Let’s take these questions in order.

    How does a person increase the quantity of thick, richly layered communications? The obvious first step is to have friends and family around to talk with. If you are isolated (working from home, not part of clubs or associations, not in a romantic relationship, etc.), you will see an increase in quality, rich communications if you can break out of that isolation.

    I think actively getting better at expressing yourself through various mediums is also a path to increase thick communications. Improving your communication could mean moving from simple speaking to also telling family stories, or from short text messages to handwritten letters, or from stiff and awkward physical movement to dance or more expressive body language. And of course, through music: moving from listening to music in the background to learning to play or sing, and then finding people to make music with.

    Ancient cultures used music as a glue—the sound of shared identity. Re‑engaging with music in this way can restore something long missing from modern life.

    And let us not forget the other side of communication: listening. We must get better at listening to those around us, not just the loudest podcast.

    Developing the skills that foster thick communication will lead to and improve well‑being in the following ways:

    Mental and Emotional Health Benefits

    • Reduced Loneliness and Isolation: Strong relationship skills act as a powerful antidote to pervasive feelings of loneliness and isolation, providing companionship, empathy, and a crucial sense of belonging.
    • Lower Rates of Anxiety and Depression: Individuals with strong social support systems report lower levels of anxiety and depression. Positive interactions trigger the release of “feel‑good” hormones like oxytocin and serotonin, which counteract negative feelings.
    • Enhanced Emotional Resilience: Healthy relationships provide a supportive framework for navigating life’s inevitable challenges. Knowing you have people to rely on during difficult times helps you cope more effectively and bounce back faster from setbacks.
    • Increased Self‑Esteem and Confidence: Feeling accepted, valued, and understood by others boosts self‑worth and confidence.
    • Greater Sense of Purpose: Deep connections often involve mutual support and contribution, which fosters a sense of responsibility and purpose in life.

    Physical Health Benefits

    The impact of strong relationships extends beyond mental health, offering significant physical benefits as well:

    • Increased Longevity: Decades of research consistently show that people with strong social ties are more likely to live longer, healthier lives. One major study found that the lack of strong relationships increased the risk of premature death by 50%—a risk comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
    • Improved Cardiovascular Health: Supportive relationships help regulate stress hormones (like cortisol) and reduce inflammation, leading to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.
    • Stronger Immune System: Feeling loved and supported can boost your immune system function, making you less likely to catch illnesses and helping you recover more quickly when you do get sick.
    • Better Stress Management and Sleep: Strong support networks buffer the negative effects of stress, which in turn leads to better sleep quality and overall improved health habits.

    Developing skills such as active listening, empathy, effective communication, and vulnerability allows you to build and maintain these crucial connections, which are essential to thriving both mentally and physically.

    Returning to Our Roots

    A theme of my thinking over the past year or so has been a return to a more natural state. What that means to me is recognizing that humans evolved over millennia in a state that does not look, sound, or function like our contemporary world. My belief is that this disconnect between how we evolved and how we currently live is causing significant difficulties, both physically and mentally.

    So I am thinking: how do I pull a few things from our nomadic and tribal past into modern life that can help alleviate some of our suffering and improve our well‑being? I will end with these three ideas—each of which, importantly, was woven together through sound and communication in the ancient world.

    1. Cooperative “Work” and Movement in Nature

    Hunter‑gatherer life was highly active, with physical exertion integrated into daily tasks for survival, such as foraging, hunting, and building shelter. These tasks were inherently social and often performed in natural outdoor environments. This contrasts sharply with modern sedentary, solitary work and isolated exercise routines.

    Contemporary Application: Engage in community‑based physical activities in natural settings with a shared goal.

    Benefit: This approach combines consistent, moderate physical activity (linked to reduced chronic disease and better mood) with the mental health benefits of being outdoors and fostering social bonds through shared effort and mutual support.

    2. Immersive and Purposeful Storytelling and Music Making

    Storytelling and music making were crucial communication mechanisms in hunter‑gatherer societies, serving to transmit vital social information, coordinate behavior, promote cooperation, and enforce social norms. They built shared identity and strengthened the group’s social fabric. They were the original “sounds of belonging.”

    Contemporary Application: Dedicate specific time for face‑to‑face, open‑ended storytelling, music making, and deep conversation rather than quick information exchanges.

    Benefit: This practice moves beyond superficial updates to build empathy and deep understanding, which are essential for strong, meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging.

    3. Integrated, Multi‑Generational Social Life

    In ancestral camps, people of all ages spent the majority of their waking hours in close proximity, engaged in joint activities like chatting, playing together, teaching (music included), looking after children, and food‑related tasks. This continuous, integrated social life provided constant support and mentorship.

    Contemporary Application: Create intentional, regular opportunities for unstructured social time that includes multiple generations. I have found that learning the “old tunes” from an elder is a deeply rewarding way of engaging with older generations.

    Benefit: Fostering a diverse, multi‑generational support system helps combat isolation, provides a wider safety net for emotional support, and creates a greater sense of community responsibility and purpose.

    If modern well‑being is suffering, perhaps it is because the sounds that once held us together—drums, voices, footfalls, chants, songs—have gone quiet. Ancient music taught people who they were to each other. It communicated belonging. And the more we find ways to restore thick, layered, communal sound and communication in our own lives, the closer we get to becoming whole again.

  • Ears Tuned for Birds, Living in a World of Engines

    Ears Tuned for Birds, Living in a World of Engines

    In 2011, an estimated one million healthy life years were lost from traffic-related noise in the western part of Europe only.

    https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/who-compendium-on-health-and-environment/who_compendium_noise_01042022.pdf?sfvrsn=bc371498_3
    "Ear tuned for birds, living in a world of engines"

    As evidenced by the statement above, the sonic environment is much more important for our health than most of us think!

    My interest in soundscapes comes from a triangulation of my pursuits as a composer/musician, anthropology, and a sensitivity to sounds. A soundscape is the collection of all the sonic elements that arise through the course of a day. Lately, I’ve become aware not only of my own personal soundscape but also of the imagined soundscapes of other times and places — the way people once listened, and the way listening shaped them.

    As I’ve gotten older my sensitivity to sounds has increased. For some reason I’m always the person who notices the high-pitched mechanical “eeeeee” or the low rumble of bass from down the street. Even the volume of constant chatter wears me down. Recently, I ate in a restaurant that had zero acoustic consideration — hard surfaces everywhere, music fighting with conversation. I used an app on my phone to check the decibel level and it came in around 86db. For context, the World Health Organization recommends that average leisure noise stay below 70 dB over a full day — and short bursts should never exceed 100 dB for more than 15 minutes. Eighty-six decibels sustained over an hour is well into the physiologically stressful range.

    Moments like this remind me of a broader thesis I’ve had for years: to live well, we need to live more in line with the conditions our bodies evolved in. Research from the World Health Organization tells me noise contributes to heart disease, hypertension, sleep disruption, and even cognitive decline, it only strengthens a belief I already felt in my bones: our ears are living in a world they never evolved for.

    Our human systems still expect certain rhythms, certain foods, certain movements, certain relationships…and certain sounds. When I sit indoors all day, that’s at odds with evolution. When I eat sugar constantly, that’s at odds with evolution. When I go eight waking hours without sunlight or without speaking to another person, that’s also at odds with my evolved biology and psychology!

    And sound is no exception.

    So what does it mean to live a more sonically ancient life?

    I’ve written a short book for composers that explores how music is organized and the roles it can play across the globe. The book is called Formative Forces in Sound. If you are interested, it’s available on Amazon here for $0.99 www.amazon.com/formativeforcesinsound

    1. Lower Volumes

    For most of human history, the loudest sounds you heard in an entire week might have been thunder, human voices, and maybe stone tools clacking together. Daily life was quieter — not silent, but quiet.

    Picture the plains or desert grasslands:

    • wind in the grasses, barely above a whisper
    • the breath of people sleeping nearby
    • the soft chatter of birds
    • an occasional call echoing across a valley

    These were the background conditions for the human nervous system.
    And they’re still the conditions our bodies think they’re living in.

    In contrast, the modern world layers engines, HVAC systems, street noise, earbuds, televisions, appliances, and dozens of steady mechanical hums on top of one another. Many of these sounds are both louder and more sustained than anything our ancestors experienced. Even “quiet” modern spaces rarely fall below 40–50 decibels. Our ears, our vagus nerve, and our hormonal systems simply weren’t built for this noise diet.

    2. Natural Rhythms: Ebb and Flow

    Ancient soundscapes had a rhythm that was… well, natural. They rose and fell with the sun and seasons. Modern soundscapes have a rhythm as well that is less tied to seasons and more to economics, societal norms, and technology.

    Natures’ rhythms are still with us and still affect us just in a much smaller degree. The sunsets and we do not go to bed, we turn on the lights. A more ancient rhythm may entail a thunderstorm passing marking the beginning of the monsoon season. A fire crackles and burns out leaving darkness. Birds call more intensely at dawn and dusk. I argue that our contemporary soundscape is more or less even across the year with only subtle sonic changes. The ancient sonic world or human had more shave over the course of a year.

    Technology is responsible for this sonic flattening.

    Everything from our daily sonic rhythms to our annual ones there are fewer cues and rhythms to give us a natural ebb and flow. On the shorter timescale a fan hums for eight hours. A refrigerator compressor kicks on every 20 minutes. A podcast runs all day. Apps ping at all hours. And on the longer timescale most of us work the same job and perform the same tasks whether it’s the quiet of winter or a bright sounds of a summery day. There’s no break and not much of a rhythm.

    Our nervous systems haven’t forgotten these sonic rhythms.
    Sound, our first and arguably most important sense, has been co-opted by machines, phones, and companies whose goals have nothing to do with our wellbeing.

    The WHO explicitly links non-stop noise — even at moderate levels — to long-term sleep and cardiovascular disturbances.

    https://www.who.int/tools/compendium-on-health-and-environment/environmental-noise

    3. Spatial Awareness

    Ancient humans listened in order to situate themselves in the world. Sound filled in what eyes couldn’t see: distance, direction, movement, presence, safety.

    Today, that capacity hasn’t disappeared it’s just needed less. Much of our time is spent indoors where our ears don’t get a chance to show off their super-locating powers. Our sense of hearing of course can’t be turned off, so we are still taking in spatial information it is just not as rich or useful as it was for our ancestors.

    4. A Balanced Spectrum

    Ancient soundscapes were broad-spectrum but gentle: the low sweep of wind, the midrange of voices and fire, the high shimmer of birds and insects.

    Modern industrial noise sits almost entirely between 100 and 3,000 Hz — the exact sensitivity range of the human ear. That means our attention circuits, stress circuits, and emotional circuits are constantly being hit in their most vulnerable band.
    It’s not just annoying it’s causing or contributing to health issues.

    5. Safety, Signaling, and Belonging

    In the deep past, sound was a continuous safety system.

    • If birds called normally → no predator nearby.
    • If the camp murmured → your tribe was safe and close.
    • If wind moved in a certain pattern → weather approaching.

    Life was naturally quiet.
    But a quiet landscape has texture, life, and important information.
    Our bodies still interpret certain sounds — water, wind, gentle voice, birds — as signals of safety and belonging. This is not metaphor. This is neurobiology. These sounds activate the parasympathetic system, slow the heart, relax the muscles, and increase vagal tone.

    We evolved inside an acoustic ecology that told us when we were safe and when we were in danger.

    Most modern environments don’t require that type of

    The Point Is Not Nostalgia — It’s Health

    This isn’t about recreating some fantasy of prehistoric life.
    It’s about realizing that our auditory systems, nervous systems, emotional systems, and social systems still expect the sonic patterns of our evolutionary past. And when we live in contradiction to those patterns — flat, loud, unending noise — there is a physiological cost: elevated cortisol, disrupted sleep, reduced focus, emotional fatigue, frayed empathy, and frayed relationships. I think the following bears repeating.

    The WHO quantifies that more than a million healthy life years were lost in one region of Europe due to environmental noise, making it clear that this isn’t just about “annoying sounds.” Modern noise is eroding our biology. And the quieter, cyclical, varied soundscapes humans evolved in are not nostalgic — they are biological baselines.

    -https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/who-compendium-on-health-and-environment/who_compendium_noise_01042022.pdf?sfvrsn=bc371498_3

    Rewilding our ears is not a hobby.
    It’s a biological intervention.

    The sounds of our world shape:

    • our stress levels
    • our social bonds
    • our capacity for attention
    • our sense of belonging
    • our nervous system
    • our memories
    • our emotional lives
    • our overall health

    To listen backward — toward the soundscape that shaped our species — is to listen inward toward wellbeing.

    A more ancient sonic world isn’t behind us; it’s beside us, waiting to be rebuilt.
    We can restore natural quiet, natural rhythm, and natural variety not by escaping modernity, but by designing our environments with awareness.

    Our ears are ancient. Our soundscapes should honor that.

    Two ways I’m working on this in my own life are:

    1. Bringing awareness of decibel levels and frequencies spectrums to the fore with some simple tools on my phone. Decibel levels are the easiest to catch but I’ll also be looking at primary frequencies throughout my day.
    2. Intentionally turning off the music, the podcast, Netflix, etc. and just resting for 5 minutes a day, preferably outside, and in particular in between work tasks. Not necessarily meditation but just a mini sonic detox of sorts.
  • From Noise to Nature: A Guide to Rewilding Our Sonic Lives

    From Noise to Nature: A Guide to Rewilding Our Sonic Lives

    sound wave morphing into bird flying into a sunset.

    The term rewild classically refers to restoring ecosystems or letting nature take care of itself—reducing human management to restore biodiversity and ecosystem processes. In recent years, I’ve noticed the concept expanding into human life—diet, movement, sleep—with the essential argument being that we’ve become disconnected from our evolutionary environments, leading to stress and disconnection. Importantly, rewilding isn’t about returning to the Stone Age, but about recalibrating toward environments our bodies evolved in.

    That’s what drew me to Strength Side’s “The Human Animal Method” program. It wasn’t about chasing numbers in the gym; it was about reconnecting to natural movement—rolling, crawling, stretching—things my body already knew deep down. And I’ve realized the same is true for sound.

    I’ve written a short book for composers that explores how music is organized and the roles it can play across the globe. The book is called Formative Forces in Sound. If you are interested, it’s available on Amazon here for $0.99 www.amazon.com/formativeforcesinsound

    Why Sound Matters

    Sound serves as a deeply evolved warning system. We can hear in the womb, and unlike vision, hearing doesn’t “switch off”—the auditory system remains active even during sleep, scanning for sudden changes that might signal danger. A single unexpected sound can wake me faster than light, since the auditory pathway is always open.

    Auditory signals are processed more rapidly than visual signals. Research shows it takes about 8–10 milliseconds for an auditory stimulus to reach the brain, while visual stimuli take 20–40 milliseconds. The full brain processing time for sound is in the range of 140–160 ms, while vision takes 180–200 ms. This quick processing helped our ancestors survive. But in my daily life, that finely tuned system is bombarded by HVAC hums, refrigerator drones, phone pings, and podcasts. It’s not being asked to save my life anymore—but it is still working, processing every signal, every moment. And the question I ask myself is: am I using this system in healthy ways, or am I letting it atrophy under the weight of noise?

    large ear emerging from a forest

    Why Rewild Hearing?

    Much like diets dominated by processed food, modern soundscapes are dominated by constant, mechanical, non-natural noise, often leading to chronic stress. Studies show noise pollution elevates stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which impairs sleep and increases the risk of various health problems. By comparison, nature’s sounds are dynamic and variable, typically promoting relaxation and wellbeing.

    I think about the analogy to myopia (nearsightedness) from lack of outdoor time: more time spent outdoors helps prevent myopia, showing vision adapts to our habitual environments. I can’t help but wonder if the same is true for hearing—years of exposure to monotonous, artificial sound may change how our auditory system functions.

    For me, rewilding hearing is about restoring balance. Not rejecting technology, but making space again for silence, for natural sounds, for voices and live music. It’s about remembering what my ears were built for.

    We already treat air pollution as a public health crisis, and rightly so. But the World Health Organization estimates that noise pollution is nearly as damaging, contributing to heart disease, sleep disorders, and chronic stress on a massive scale. If smog clouds our lungs, constant hums and sirens cloud our minds.

    The Costs of Modern Noise

    • Cognitive overload: Constant streams of information result in reduced focus and shallow thinking.
    • Isolation: Personal audio devices cut out community sound, leading to less social connection.
    • Physiology: Continuous background noise is linked to sustained higher levels of stress hormones and worse sleep.
    • Parallel to diet: As processed foods affect physical health, processed and relentless sound can affect mental health and hearing.
    Person with headphones on. On one side is a grey city and on the other green nature.

    For a fantastic read about soundscapes check out the aptly named book: The Soundscape by R. Murray Schafer! This book helped me understand more about how what I was hearing in my day to day life.

    Principles of Sonic Rewilding

    Rewilding sound isn’t about perfection. It’s about tipping the balance back. Here are five principles that I’ve found useful:

    1. Awareness – Notice what you’re hearing. A decibel meter app can show how loud your world is. I try to pay attention to which sounds stress me and which restore me.
    2. Silence & Fasting – Give your ears breaks, the way fasting gives your body rest. A few minutes of quiet resets my nervous system.
    3. Nature First – Seek natural sounds daily: birds, wind, water. If I can’t get outside, I’ll play high-quality nature recordings. Pink or brown noise feels gentler than harsh white noise.
    4. Intentional Consumption – Be selective with podcasts, music, and headphone use. I’ve realized I don’t need sound filling every waking moment.
    5. Communal Sound – Revalue live, human, uncompressed sound. I’ve found that conversations, live music, and rituals are the sounds that bind us together.

    Practices for Rewilding Your Sonic Life

    I think of these like a workout program for the ears—simple, repeatable practices 3–7 times per week.

    1. Sonic Awareness Drill (Daily)

    I use a free decibel meter app and check my surroundings throughout the day. Journaling what sounds stress me and what sounds give me peace has been eye-opening. Awareness is the first step.

    2. Silent Walk (2–3x per week)

    This is one of my favorites: I leave my phone at home. No music, no podcasts. Just walk.

    At first, it can feel empty. But after ten minutes, my thoughts stretch out when nothing interrupts them. My ears tune in—footsteps on gravel, birds overhead, wind shifting trees, my own breath.

    It’s fasting for the ears. Just as my body resets when given a break from constant food intake, my mind resets when my ears rest from constant chatter.

    3. Nature Immersion (3–7x per week)

    I try to spend time outdoors without headphones. Letting my ears take in the layered sound of birds, insects, moving water, or shifting air feels like a reset. When I can’t get outside, I’ll play recordings of forests, rivers, or rain. Pink or brown noise also helps mimic nature’s gentler frequencies.

    4. Layered Listening (Weekly)

    I’ll close my eyes for five minutes and map near vs. far sounds. I try to identify at least five layers. This is how our ancestors lived—ears building a mental map of the world. The practice sharpens awareness and brings calm.

    5. Headphone Reset (As Needed)

    One day a week, I skip headphones. I let my ears breathe. Earbuds are a tool, but I try not to let them become a permanent filter between me and the world.

    What’s at Stake

    Without rewilding: stress, shallow thought, disrupted sleep, and disconnection. With rewilding: clarity, presence, creativity, and peace.

    I already know how to rewild my diet, my movement, even my sleep. It’s time to rewild my ears.

    I have also found that as a composer and thinker about music, giving my ears more nature time has restored or awakened ways in which I hear music. I’d say it’s a bit like a cleanse; after some time in nature my ears feel refreshed.

    An Invitation to Listen

    The modern world isn’t going silent anytime soon. But we can create islands of sonic balance. For me, rewilding my hearing isn’t nostalgia it’s about taking control of one aspect of my health. Non-natural noises truly start to grind me down. Motorbikes passing, dump trucks rumbling, renovations being done next door…you get the idea. I am working on finding a way to give my sense of hearing a nature break away from all of that!

    In all the noise of a city, I sometimes wonder what would it mean to live in a world not just designed for what we see, but for what we hear? Everything from our houses to local ordinances….but I digress.

    I’m doing a couple practices this week; walking without my phone and sitting quietly in my yard. That’s it. Just the intention to let my ears rest. I invite you to join me.

    References

    [1] https://rewildingeurope.com/what-is-rewilding/
    [2] https://www.rewild.org/what-is-rewilding
    [3] https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rewilding
    [4] https://www.mossy.earth/rewilding-knowledge/what-is-rewilding
    [5] https://www.rewildingbritain.org.uk/why-rewild/what-is-rewilding/an-introduction-to-rewilding/defining-rewilding
    [6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12689472/
    [7] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4456887/
    [8] https://www.scirp.org/html/4-2400003_2689.htm
    [9] https://www.mykidsvision.org/knowledge-centre/all-about-outdoor-time
    [10] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6878772/
    [11] https://meriden-sbroad.refocuseyedoctors.com/why-outdoor-play-matters-for-childrens-eye-health/
    [12] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2836417/
    [13] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/04/180418144725.htm
    [14] https://rewilding.org/what-is-rewilding/

    [15] https://www.who.int/europe/news-room/fact-sheets/item/noise

    [16] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3971384/

    [17] https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/noise-pollution-can-lead-to-sleep-issues-chronic-health-problems/

  • Music and Healing: A Global Investigation

    Music and Healing: A Global Investigation

    The first time I really heard about music truly healing people wasn’t until college. Before that, I had played music and felt it’s power, but never was it articulated as “healing” or even something that was “healthy.” While I was studying at the University of New Mexico, there was a presentation given by the anthropology department. Someone from UNM was affiliated with a documentary of a group of tribal people from South America. I’ve tried to remember and look up which tribe this was, but I haven’t found it yet…I know I wrote it down somewhere. What I do remember was the incredible presentation of the footage the group took and hearing a couple members from the tribe speak about how they view music. There was a lot in the presentation but here are a few key pieces:

    • The shaman and tribe at large would sing to heal people,
    • The shaman would select particular “songs” to sing to heal various ailments,
    • The people described the health of a person as having good air or bad air.

    The shaman claimed to see “through” people, kind of between the molecules and it was this “empty” space that could be healthy or unhealthy. I was intrigued by this, not because I believed the man could actually see between my molecules but because it was the first time I’d thought about vibrations affecting more than just our thoughts or emotions.

    Resonance (vibrations) have taken down buildings and bridges because the materials begin to resonate too violently. Here’s a video giving a demonstration of how some buildings collapse and some don’t during an earthquake.

    I think it is a relatively straight forward matter to accept that if manifestations of vibrations (resonance, frequencies, etc.) can affect physical materials like steel and cement, then vibrations can affect a human body. Now, to what extent and degree of precision can we control vibrations to result in health benefits, I’m not sure, but I believe vibrations have an effect and I also believe ancient people were very much in tune with this phenomenon. Furthermore, what is music but manipulations of vibrations.

    To see the healing power of music on display, all one has to do is choose a meaningful pop song, go to that song on YouTube and read the comments. Typically, the comment section is full of people expressing how that one song has saved their life in one way or another.

    Music is healing. Not a controversial statement, but one that may need to be taken more seriously whether on a personal or societal level. I believe this because there are many ailments arising that music may be specially placed to help with – loneliness, depression, overworked, overstressed, and more.

    I’ve written a short book that explores how music is organized and the roles it can play across the globe. The book is called Formative Forces in Sound. If you are interested it is available on Amazon here for $0.99 www.amazon.com/formativeforcesinsound

    Historical Perspectives on Music and Healing

    As a way to get into this topic, I thought moving by geography may be as good as any.

    1. Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia:
      • In ancient Egyptian civilization, music was an integral part of religious rituals, healing ceremonies, and daily life. Temples had dedicated musicians who played harps, flutes, and percussion instruments during worship and healing practices.
      • Mesopotamian cultures also believed in the therapeutic power of music. Clay tablets from Sumerian and Babylonian civilizations mention specific musical modes for treating ailments.
    2. Greek and Roman Traditions:
      • The Greeks associated music with the Muses, who were believed to inspire creativity, healing, and wisdom. Pythagoras explored the mathematical relationships between musical intervals and their effects on the human psyche.
      • Asclepius, the Greek god of healing, was often depicted with a lyre. Healing sanctuaries called “Asclepions” used music, chanting, and dream therapy to aid patients.
    3. Medieval Europe:
      • During the Middle Ages, monasteries preserved ancient knowledge, including musical practices. Gregorian chants, characterized by their soothing melodies and repetitive patterns, were used for healing purposes.
    4. Indigenous Cultures: (more on this topic here: Native American Music: Reaching The Spiritual Plane – Stardust Pilgrim | Mindfulness, Meditation, Wisdom)
      • Native American tribes, such as the Navajo and Hopi, used music and dance in healing rituals. Drumming, chanting, and flute playing were believed to restore harmony and balance.
      • Australian Aboriginal cultures incorporated didgeridoos and clapsticks in their ceremonies, connecting music to spiritual healing.
    5. Asian Traditions:
      • Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes the flow of vital energy (Qi). Music, especially the pentatonic scale, was used to balance Qi and promote health.
    6. Renaissance and Baroque Periods:
      • Renaissance courts employed court musicians to play soothing music for royalty and nobility. Composers like Hildegard von Bingen composed hymns with healing intentions.
      • Baroque music, with its intricate harmonies, was thought to have therapeutic effects. Physicians recommended listening to works by composers like Bach and Handel.
    7. 19th Century and Beyond:
      • The Romantic era saw a surge in interest in music’s emotional impact. Composers like Beethoven and Chopin composed pieces that resonated with listeners’ emotions.
      • The field of music therapy emerged in the 20th century. Pioneers like E. Thayer Gaston and Clive Robbins developed structured approaches to using music for healing.

    Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia: Music as Medicine

    Ancient Egypt pharos and musical healing.

    1. Egyptian Temples and Healing Rituals In ancient Egypt, music was deeply intertwined with religious practices, healing ceremonies, and daily life. Temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses had resident musicians who played a crucial role in maintaining cosmic harmony. Here are some key aspects:

    • Musical Instruments: Egyptian musicians used a variety of instruments, including harps, flutes, lyres, and percussion instruments. These instruments were believed to have specific healing properties.
    • Chants and Incantations: Priests and priestesses chanted hymns and incantations during rituals. These melodic phrases were thought to invoke divine energies and promote physical and spiritual healing.
    • Harmony and Balance: The concept of Ma’at (cosmic balance) was central to Egyptian beliefs. Music was seen as a way to restore harmony within the individual and the community.

    2. Mesopotamian Healing Practices Mesopotamian cultures (including Sumerians and Babylonians) also recognized music’s healing potential. Here’s what we know:

    • Medical Texts: Clay tablets from ancient Mesopotamia contain medical texts that mention specific musical modes for treating various ailments. These texts describe melodies associated with specific deities or healing rituals.
    • Incantations and Exorcisms: Musicians and priests performed incantations and exorcisms to drive away evil spirits causing illness. These rituals often involved rhythmic drumming and vocalizations.
    • The Role of the Harp: The harp held special significance in Mesopotamian healing practices. It was believed that the vibrations produced by harp strings could influence the body’s energy flow and restore health.

    3. The Divine Connection Both Egyptian and Mesopotamian cultures believed that music had a direct connection to the divine. Whether invoking deities, harmonizing cosmic forces, or soothing troubled souls, music was a bridge between the earthly and the spiritual realms.

    Sources and Citations:

    1. Harp:
      • Egyptian Belief: The harp held immense spiritual significance in ancient Egypt. It was associated with the goddess Hathor, who was not only the goddess of music but also of love, joy, and healing. Hathor was often depicted playing the harp, and her music was believed to soothe the hearts of both gods and humans.
      • Healing Role: Harp music was used during religious ceremonies, especially in temples dedicated to healing deities. The vibrations produced by the harp strings were thought to resonate with cosmic energies, promoting physical and emotional well-being.
    2. Flute:
      • Egyptian Belief: The flute (often made from reeds) was considered a divine instrument. It was associated with the god Osiris, ruler of the afterlife. Flute music was believed to guide souls on their journey to the next world.
      • Healing Role: Flutes were played during rituals to invoke Osiris and other benevolent spirits. The gentle melodies were thought to ease pain, calm anxiety, and facilitate healing.
    3. Lyre:
      • Mesopotamian Belief: The lyre (a stringed instrument resembling a small harp) was revered in Mesopotamian culture. It symbolized the connection between earthly and celestial realms.
      • Healing Role: Musicians played the lyre during healing rituals. The vibrations of the lyre strings were believed to harmonize the body’s energy flow, restoring health. The epic of Gilgamesh mentions the healing power of music played on a lyre.
      • “Play, O lyre, play!” Gilgamesh implores. The lyre, its strings taut as fate, responds. Its notes weave through the palace chambers, caressing the wounded king’s heart. Enkidu, once wild as the gazelles, now lies frail, his life slipping like sand through an hourglass. The lyre’s lament—its harmonies of loss and longing—echoes their shared grief.
    4. Percussion Instruments (Drums):
      • Egyptian and Mesopotamian Belief: Drums were essential in both cultures. Their rhythmic beats represented the heartbeat of the cosmos. They were used in religious ceremonies, including healing rituals.
      • Healing Role: Drumming induced trance states, allowing individuals to connect with higher realms. It was believed that the vibrations of drumbeats could dislodge negative energies and restore balance.
    5. Chants and Vocalizations:
      • Belief in Both Cultures: The human voice was considered a powerful instrument. Chants, hymns, and incantations were used to invoke deities, heal the sick, and protect against malevolent forces.
      • Healing Role: Priests, priestesses, and shamans chanted specific phrases during rituals. The rhythmic patterns and sacred words were believed to channel divine energy for healing purposes.

    These instruments were not merely tools for entertainment; they were conduits for healing. Whether healing the physical or the mental, music was believed to heal. Even if just the placebo effect was all musical healing could achieve, that would still heal many ailments! Whether through the soothing melodies of the harp, the haunting notes of the flute, or the rhythmic beats of drums, music played a vital role in ancient healing practices.

    Greek and Roman Traditions: Music as Medicine

    Greek and Roman style buildings

    1. The Healing Power of Music in Ancient Greece

    • Apollo and the Lyre:
      • The Greek god Apollo was not only associated with music but also revered as the “undisputed master of music in the Greek world.” He played the lyre, a harp-like stringed instrument, and was regarded as the god of healing.
      • Apollo’s dual role as a musician and healer laid the foundation for the connection between music and well-being.
    • The Theory of the Four Humors:
      • Ancient Greek medicine operated on the theory of the four humors (fluids): blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. Health depended on maintaining a balance among these humors.
      • Music was believed to restore this balance. Certain melodies and rhythms were prescribed to address specific imbalances.
    • Plato and Music as Education:
      • Philosopher Plato recognized music’s educational and therapeutic potential. He taught that specific types of music could shape character and morality.
      • Plato’s writings emphasized using music to teach children the difference between good and bad, as well as conveying abstract concepts.

    “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything.”

    Plato
    • Aristotle’s Views on Music:
      • Aristotle, another influential Greek philosopher, discussed music’s role in relaxation and leisure. He believed that music allowed contemplation and helped individuals find purpose.
      • Music was considered purifying to the soul. Certain rhythms and songs were believed to heal mental disturbances.

    “The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.” — Aristotle

    Aristotle’s Academy, nestled among olive groves, was more than a school—it was a sanctuary for seekers. Here, music wasn’t mere entertainment; it was a compass for the soul:

    Music, he argued, transcended mere aesthetics. It guided citizens toward virtue or vice. The right melodies, like celestial constellations, steered minds toward noble thoughts. Through music, individuals found purpose—their moral compass set by harmonies.

    2. Asclepions: Ancient Healing Centers

    • What Were Asclepions?:
      • Asclepions were healing sanctuaries dedicated to the god Asclepius (Asklepios), the first doctor-demigod in Greek mythology.
      • These centers combined medical treatments, religious rituals, and spiritual practices to promote holistic well-being.
    • Pergamon’s Asclepion:
      • The Asclepion at Pergamon (located in present-day Turkey) was founded around the 4th century BCE.
      • It was built around a sacred spring that still flows today. The site became one of the best-known healing centers in the ancient world.
    • World’s First Psychiatric Hospital:
      • Pergamon’s Asclepion was not only a physical healing center but also the world’s first psychiatric hospital.
      • Patients sought cures for physical and mental ailments by visiting the sacred springs and participating in various therapies.
    • Dreams and Diagnosis:
      • Patients entered the healing temple via the Sacred Way. An underground passage led to cubicles where patients spent the night.
      • In the morning, patients recounted their dreams to priests/doctors. Dreams were considered messages from the god Asclepius and aided in diagnosis.
    • Therapies at Asclepions:
      • Treatments included psychotherapy, massage, herbal remedies, mud baths, surgeries, and drinking water from the sacred springs.
      • The choice of treatment was often guided by the patient’s dreams.
    • Holistic Healing:
      • Asclepions believed that healing was a sacred art. They aimed to mend not only the body but also the soul.
      • Patients stayed for weeks, entertained in the theater, and immersed themselves in the therapeutic environment.
    • Legacy and Modern Interest:
      • Thousands of people still visit Asklepion each year, hoping for healing and restoration.

    Sources and Citations:

    Apollo, the Greek god of music, prophecy, and healing, was known for his exceptional musical abilities. Here are a couple of stories where Apollo’s music played a crucial role in healing:

    1. The Healing of King Admetus:
      • King Admetus of Pherae was fated to die unless someone else willingly took his place in death. Apollo, who had served as Admetus’s bondsman, intervened.
      • Apollo persuaded the Fates to allow Admetus to live if he found someone willing to die in his stead. However, no one volunteered.
      • Apollo then played his lyre and sang a mournful song, touching the heart of Alcestis, Admetus’s wife. She selflessly agreed to die in his place.
      • Apollo’s music moved Alcestis’s soul, demonstrating its power to heal emotional wounds and inspire self-sacrifice.
    2. The Healing of Marsyas:
      • Marsyas, a satyr, challenged Apollo to a musical contest. Marsyas played the flute, while Apollo played the lyre.
      • The Muses judged the contest, and despite Marsyas’s skill, Apollo emerged victorious. In his anger, Apollo flayed Marsyas alive.
      • While this story ends tragically for Marsyas, it highlights Apollo’s mastery of music. His lyre-playing symbolized order and harmony, contrasting with Marsyas’s wild flute music.
      • The tale also serves as a cautionary reminder that music can heal or harm, depending on its intent and context.

    Apollo’s music was not only entertaining but also had a profound therapeutic impact. Whether soothing souls, inspiring courage, or invoking divine energies, Apollo’s melodies held immense power.

    Sources and Citations:

    The ancient Greeks believed that music played a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the four humors (blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile) within the human body. Let’s explore how they thought music contributed to this delicate equilibrium:

    1. The Four Humors Theory:
      • According to Greek humoral theory, the human body was composed of four primary fluids or humors. Each humor corresponded to an element (earth, water, fire, and air) and had specific qualities:
        • Blood (Sanguine): Associated with air, warm and moist.
        • Phlegm (Phlegmatic): Associated with water, cold and moist.
        • Yellow Bile (Choleric): Associated with fire, warm and dry.
        • Black Bile (Melancholic): Associated with earth, cold and dry.
      • Health depended on maintaining a harmonious balance among these humors.
    2. Music and the Humors:
      • Greek physicians, including Hippocrates, believed that an excess or deficiency of any humor could lead to illness. Music was seen as a way to restore this balance.
      • Different musical modes (scales) were associated with specific humors. For example:
        • Dorian Mode: Linked to courage and strength, associated with blood.
        • Phrygian Mode: Linked to relaxation and calmness, associated with phlegm.
        • Lydian Mode: Linked to passion and intensity, associated with yellow bile.
        • Mixolydian Mode: Linked to introspection and melancholy, associated with black bile.
    3. Harmonious Melodies:
      • Greek musicians composed melodies that aimed to harmonize the humors. These melodies were believed to resonate with the body’s inner rhythms.
      • The right combination of musical intervals (such as fourths, fifths, and octaves) was thought to influence the balance of the humors.
      • Apollo, the god of music and healing, was often depicted playing the lyre, emphasizing the connection between music and well-being.
    4. Therapeutic Applications:
      • In Asclepions (healing sanctuaries), music was used alongside other therapies. Patients listened to specific modes or songs to address their specific ailments.
      • For example, a patient with excessive melancholy (black bile) might be prescribed uplifting melodies in the Lydian mode to restore balance.
    5. Psychological Effects:
      • Greek philosophers recognized that music could impact emotions and behavior. Plato believed that certain musical modes could shape character.
      • Aristotle suggested that moderate imbalances in the mixture of humors produced specific behavioral patterns. Music could influence these patterns positively.
    6. Legacy and Modern Insights:
      • While the humoral theory eventually fell out of favor, the idea that music affects our well-being persists.
      • Modern research supports the notion that music can influence mood, stress levels, and even physiological processes.

    In summary, the Greeks believed that music acted as a therapeutic agent, harmonizing the humors and promoting health. Whether through specific modes, rhythms, or melodic intervals, music was considered a powerful tool for restoring balance within the body and mind.

    Sources and Citations:

    Plato, the renowned ancient Greek philosopher, had profound insights into the role of music in shaping character, morality, and education. Let’s explore his views on music and its therapeutic implications:

    Plato and Music: Cultivating Virtue and Harmony

    1. The Role of Music in Education:
      • Plato believed that music was not merely entertainment but a powerful tool for shaping the soul and character.
      • In his work “The Republic,” Plato discusses the ideal city-state (Kallipolis) and the education necessary to produce virtuous citizens.
      • Music, along with gymnastics (physical education), formed the core of this education.
    2. The Ethical Power of Music:
      • Plato recognized that music had a direct impact on emotions, behavior, and moral development.
      • He argued that certain musical modes (scales) could either elevate or degrade the soul.
      • The choice of music was crucial because it influenced the formation of virtues.
    3. The Character of Musical Modes:
      • Plato analyzed the various Greek musical modes (Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, etc.) based on their specific harmonies and rhythms.
      • He associated each mode with certain qualities:
        • Dorian Mode: Fosters courage, self-discipline, and moderation.
        • Phrygian Mode: Calming and contemplative.
        • Lydian Mode: Passionate and intense.
        • Mixolydian Mode: Reflective and melancholic.
    4. Music and the Soul’s Harmony:
      • Plato believed that the soul had its own harmony, which could be disrupted by improper music.
      • Harmonious music aligned the soul with cosmic order and virtue.
      • Dissonant or chaotic music led to inner discord and moral confusion.
    5. The Influence of Musical Training:
      • Plato advocated for rigorous musical training from an early age.
      • He believed that children should listen to harmonious melodies and avoid dissonant ones.
      • Proper musical education would cultivate virtues like courage, temperance, and justice.
    6. The Guardians’ Musical Education:
      • In Kallipolis, the guardians (rulers and defenders) received a specialized musical education.
      • They learned to appreciate harmonious melodies and rejected those that stirred unruly passions.
      • Their souls were attuned to the cosmic harmony, making them fit to govern.
    7. Music and the Ideal State:
      • Plato’s vision of the ideal state involved a harmonious society where music played a central role.
      • Music was a means to achieve balance, order, and moral excellence.

    In summary, Plato believed that music was not only an aesthetic pleasure but a force that shaped character, morality, and the well-ordered soul. His insights continue to resonate in discussions about the impact of music on human development.

    Sources and Citations:

    Aristotle, the ancient Greek philosopher and student of Plato, had significant insights into the therapeutic effects of music and its impact on mental well-being. Let’s explore his views in more detail:

    Aristotle’s Views on Music and Healing

    1. Music as a Therapeutic Agent:
      • Aristotle recognized the power of music to influence human emotions and moods. He believed that music had a direct impact on mental and physical health.
      • In his work “Politics,” Aristotle discussed how music could be used for relaxation, leisure, and healing.
    2. Emotional Effects of Musical Modes:
      • Aristotle categorized different types of musical modes (or scales) based on their emotional effects. Each mode was associated with specific qualities and had a distinct impact on the listener.
      • For example:
        • Dorian Mode: Associated with courage, nobility, and strength. It inspired feelings of valor and determination.
        • Phrygian Mode: Calming and contemplative. It allowed for introspection and relaxation.
        • Lydian Mode: Passionate and intense. It could evoke strong emotions.
        • Mixolydian Mode: Reflective and sometimes melancholic. It encouraged self-reflection.
    3. Music for Relaxation and Contemplation:
      • Aristotle believed that music served as a means of relaxation and leisure. It allowed individuals to contemplate life, find purpose, and connect with their inner thoughts.
      • Listening to harmonious melodies could calm the mind and provide a sense of peace.
    4. Purification of the Soul:
      • Aristotle considered music to be purifying to the soul. Certain rhythms and specific songs were believed to have healing properties.
      • Music could alleviate mental disturbances, including mania and other emotional imbalances.
    5. Catharsis through Music:
      • Aristotle’s concept of “catharsis” extended to music. Catharsis referred to the emotional release or purification achieved through art and drama.
      • Music, when experienced in the right way, could cleanse the soul, allowing individuals to process emotions and find clarity.
    6. Legacy and Modern Insights:
      • Aristotle’s ideas laid the groundwork for understanding music’s impact on mental health. His recognition of music’s power resonates with modern music therapy practices.
      • Contemporary music therapists continue to use music to calm patients, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional well-being.

    Sources and Citations:

    The Asclepions were ancient Greek healing centers dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine and healing. These sanctuaries combined medical treatments, religious rituals, and spiritual practices to promote holistic well-being. Music played a significant role within the Asclepions:

    1. Sacred Music and Healing:
      • Asclepius was believed to have been born on Mt. Titthion near Epidaurus, where the most famous Asclepion was located.
      • Music was an integral part of the healing process. It was used to soothe patients, invoke divine intervention, and facilitate physical and mental recovery.
    2. The Healing Temple Experience:
      • Patients approached the Asclepion via the Sacred Way, a path that symbolized their journey toward health.
      • An underground passage led to cubicles where patients spent the night. In the morning, they recounted their dreams to priests or doctors.
      • Dreams were considered messages from Asclepius and aided in diagnosing diseases.
    3. Musical Therapies:
      • The Asclepion offered various treatments, including psychotherapy, massage, herbal remedies, mud baths, surgeries, and bathing.
      • The choice of treatment was often guided by the patient’s dreams. Specific melodies or modes were prescribed based on dream content.
      • Music was believed to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit, promoting overall well-being.
    4. Entertainment and Holistic Healing:
      • Asclepions had theaters to entertain patients during their stay.
      • Healing was seen as a sacred art, addressing not only physical ailments but also the soul.
      • Thousands of people visited Asclepions, seeking cures for both physical and mental conditions.
    5. Legacy and Modern Interest:
      • The Asclepions left a lasting legacy. They were centers of medical innovation, spiritual connection, and community healing.
      • Even today, people travel to these ancient sites, hoping for healing and restoration.

    Sources and Citations:

    Medieval Europe: Gregorian Chants and Healing

    1. Monastic Preservation of Knowledge:
      • During the Middle Ages, monasteries were centers of learning and cultural preservation.
      • Monks meticulously copied ancient texts, including musical manuscripts, safeguarding knowledge from earlier civilizations.
    2. The Gregorian Chants:
      • Origin: Gregorian chants, also known as plainchants or plainsongs, emerged in the 9th century within Christian monastic communities.
      • Characteristics:
        • Simplicity: Gregorian chants were characterized by their simplicity, devoid of elaborate harmonies or instrumental accompaniment.
        • Melodic Patterns: They followed specific melodic patterns, often using a single vocal line (monophonic texture).
        • Latin Texts: The chants were sung in Latin and were integral to Christian liturgy.
        • Repetition: Repetition of phrases and melodic motifs was common.
    3. Healing Aspects of Gregorian Chants:
      • Soothing Melodies: Gregorian chants were intentionally calming. Their slow, flowing melodies had a tranquilizing effect on listeners.
      • Stress Reduction: Monks and patients alike found solace in these chants. Listening to them reduced stress and anxiety.
      • Spiritual Healing: The chants were believed to connect the listener to the divine. They facilitated prayer, meditation, and spiritual healing.
      • Harmonizing the Soul: Just as the chants harmonized musical intervals, they were thought to harmonize the soul, promoting physical and emotional well-being.
    4. Chant in Monastic Life:
      • Monks chanted the Divine Office (liturgical prayers) multiple times a day. The rhythm of monastic life revolved around these chants.
      • The chants were used during Mass, the Liturgy of the Hours, and other religious ceremonies.
    5. Notable Chants:
      • Kyrie Eleison: A plea for mercy, often sung during the Mass.
      • Dies Irae: A haunting chant associated with the medieval Requiem Mass for the dead.
      • Salve Regina: A hymn to the Virgin Mary, sung during evening prayers.
    6. Legacy and Modern Interest:
      • Gregorian chants continue to be performed today, both within religious contexts and as a form of meditative music.
      • Their healing properties are still acknowledged, and some studies suggest that listening to these ancient chants can reduce stress and promote relaxation.

    Sources and Citations:

    • Gregorian Chant – New World Encyclopedia
    • The Influence of Gregorian Chant on Music Therapy

    Native American Music and Healing

    1. Diverse Musical Traditions:
      • Native American tribes across North America have rich and diverse musical traditions.
      • Music is deeply intertwined with their spiritual beliefs, social customs, and healing practices.
    2. Drumming, Chanting, and Flute Playing:
      • Drumming: The drum is central to Native American music. Its rhythmic beats symbolize the heartbeat of Mother Earth. Drum circles are used in healing ceremonies, dances, and rituals.
      • Chanting: Native American chants are powerful expressions. They serve as conduits for storytelling, invoking spirits, and promoting healing.
      • Flute Playing: The Native American flute, often made from wood, is used for solo performances. Its haunting melodies connect the player to nature and the spirit world.
    3. Healing Rituals:
      • Medicine Men and Women: Native American medicine people receive songs in dreams or visions. These healing songs are used to treat the sick.
      • Ceremonial Music: Music accompanies various ceremonies, including sweat lodges, vision quests, and purification rituals.
      • Connection to Nature: Native American music connects individuals to the land, animals, and ancestors. It restores balance and harmony.
    4. Modern Interest:

    Australian Aboriginal Music and Spiritual Healing

    1. Didgeridoo and Clapsticks:
      • Didgeridoo: The didgeridoo, an ancient wind instrument, is unique to Australian Aboriginal culture. It produces deep, resonant tones.
      • Clapsticks: These percussion instruments are used in ceremonies, dances, and rituals.
    2. Spiritual Connection:
    3. Vibrational Healing:
      • The didgeridoo’s vibrations are believed to cleanse and heal. Its sound resonates with the land and ancestral spirits.
      • Aboriginal music promotes balance, both within the individual and the community.
    4. Modern Recordings:

    In summary, both Native American and Australian Aboriginal music serve as bridges between the earthly and spiritual realms. They restore harmony, promote healing, and honor ancient traditions.

    Sources and Citations:

    Music as a Healer in the Modern West

    The healing power of music has been a subject of scientific research, and several studies have explored its impact on health and well-being. Here are some notable findings:

    1. Music and Memory:
      • Researchers have found that performing music reactivates areas of the brain associated with memory, reasoning, speech, emotion, and reward. Music doesn’t just help us retrieve stored memories; it also helps us lay down new ones 1.
      • When I was around 13 years old, a man at the church I went to had to have a shunt placed in his head. I don’t recall all the details of his illness, but I remember him having extreme memory problems – could remember how to tie his shoe, how to form sentences, or who most people in his life were. But when a guitar was places in his hands, he was able to play and sing all the way through songs without missing a beat!
    2. Music Therapy for Various Populations:
      • Premature Infants: Music therapy has been used in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) to promote weight gain, reduce stress, and improve feeding patterns.
      • Depression: Music therapy has shown promise in improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression. My wife has suffered from depression, and we could always tell when things were really bad because she didn’t want to play or listen to music (she has played piano since she was 3 years old). When she would listen to uplifting music, her mood would improve. Alternatively, if she indulged in very sad sounding music, her mood continued down into depression. Music was obviously able to affect her in positive and negative ways. We made a conscious effort to play music every day and listen to positive music. This didn’t cure her, but it has certainly made a difference in her everyday life.
      • Parkinson’s Disease: Rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) using music can enhance movement and gait in Parkinson’s patients.
    3. Structural and Functional Brain Changes:
      • Neuroimaging studies have revealed that music engages multiple brain regions, including those associated with emotion, memory, and motor control.
      • Long-term musical training can lead to structural changes in the brain, such as increased gray matter volume in specific areas.
    4. Music and Stress Reduction:
      • Listening to calming music can reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone.
      • Live music performances have been associated with decreased anxiety and improved well-being.
    5. Music Therapy as an Evidence-Based Intervention:
    6. Holistic Approach:
      • Music therapy considers the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
      • It can be personalized based on individual preferences, cultural background, and specific health needs.

    In summary, music therapy is a powerful tool for healing, and ongoing research continues to explore its applications across various populations and health conditions.

    Sources and Citations:

    The Flow of Qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine

    In the heart of ancient China, where the whispers of silk-clad sages still echo through mist-shrouded mountains, a profound belief took root: the balance of vital energy, or Qi, is the key to health and harmony. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) weaves wisdom, where the pulse of life flows along meridians, and the dance of Yin and Yang orchestrates our well-being.

    The Dance of Yin and Yang

    In the bustling markets of Beijing or the serene courtyards of Hangzhou, TCM practitioners invoke the timeless principles of Yin and Yang. These cosmic forces, like the sun and moon, entwine in perpetual motion. Yin, the feminine, embodies darkness, receptivity, and formlessness. Yang, the masculine, radiates light, activity, and structure. Together, they compose the symphony of existence.

    Qi: The Breath of Life

    At the heart of TCM lies Qi, the life force that animates all creation. Imagine it as the gentle breeze that rustles bamboo leaves or the forces that shape mountains. Qi flows through meridians, invisible channels that crisscross our bodies. When Qi stagnates or wanes, dissonance ensues—illness, pain, and imbalance.

    The Healing Notes of Music

    In the ancient courtyards of the Forbidden City, emperors and scholars sought harmony through music. The pentatonic scale, with its five elemental notes, resonated with cosmic order. Each note corresponded to an organ, a season, and an emotion. The Gong, Shang, Jiao, Zhi, and Yu—like celestial messengers—imbued melodies with healing intent.

    • Gong (宫): The fundamental note, akin to Earth, resonated with the spleen and stomach. It grounded the spirit, fostering stability and nourishment.
    • Shang (商): The note of Wood, embodied by the liver. It surged like spring sap, promoting growth and renewal.
    • Jiao (角): Fire’s note, danced with the heart. Passion and joy flowed, igniting the flames of life.
    • Zhi (徵): Metal’s tone, echoed in the lungs. It purified, releasing grief and melancholy.
    • Yu (羽): Water’s melody, whispered through the kidneys. It flowed like a tranquil stream, calming fear and uncertainty.

    The Acupuncture of Sound

    In the dimly lit chambers of TCM clinics, patients recline as needles puncture meridians. But sound, too, is a needle—a vibrational acupuncture. The pentatonic melodies, played on bamboo flutes or silk strings, recalibrate Qi. The Gong grounds, the Shang invigorates, the Jiao uplifts, the Zhi purifies, and the Yu soothes.

    Modern Echoes

    As Beijing’s skyscrapers pierce the sky, TCM endures. Hospitals blend ancient herbs with modern science. And the pentatonic scale? It resonates in the heartbeats of millions, a timeless rhythm that heals beyond borders.

    Music: A Triune Influence

    1. Mind:

    • Emotional Resonance:
      • Music has an immediate effect on our emotions. A melancholic melody can evoke sadness, while an upbeat rhythm can lift our spirits.
      • Certain musical pieces become associated with memories, triggering nostalgia or joy.
    • Cognitive Enhancement:
      • Listening to music engages various cognitive processes. It can improve focus, memory, and creativity.
      • The “Mozart effect” suggests that listening to classical music may enhance spatial-temporal reasoning.
    • Stress Reduction and Relaxation:
      • Calming music reduces cortisol levels, promoting relaxation and stress relief.
      • Music therapy helps manage anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders.

    2. Body:

    • Physical Response:
      • Music affects heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate.
      • Upbeat rhythms can energize us, while slow tempos induce relaxation.
    • Pain Management:
      • Music therapy reduces pain perception. It distracts from discomfort and releases endorphins.
      • Surgical patients who listen to music require less pain medication.
    • Motor Coordination and Rehabilitation:
      • Rhythmic music enhances motor skills. Dance and movement therapies use music for rehabilitation.
      • Stroke patients benefit from rhythmic auditory stimulation.

    3. Spiritual/Moral:

    • Sacred Music:
      • Across cultures, music accompanies religious rituals. It connects us to the divine.
      • Hymns, chants, and devotional songs foster spiritual experiences.
    • Moral Reflection:
      • Music can evoke ethical contemplation. Lyrics convey messages of love, compassion, and justice.
      • Protest songs inspire social change and moral awakening.
    • Transcendence and Unity:
      • Music transcends individuality. In communal singing or chanting, we merge into a collective experience.
      • Choirs, congregations, and music festivals create a sense of unity.

    Conclusion:

    That was a lot to get through! Something I put together as I investigated these various beliefs and traditions is that basically everyone across the globe and from the most ancient times to today knew/believed music affects humans.

    Music truly is a universal that transcends borders, cultures, and time. It resonates within us, affecting our minds, bodies, and souls. Whether in joy or sorrow, celebration or meditation, music remains a powerful force that shapes our existence.

    I notice that most if not all the cultures and time periods that I examined in this article believed that music helped bring balance. Whether it was humors, vibrations, or Qi the idea that music can bring a person (or society) into balance is powerful.

    Without any research I think we can all attest to the power of music to alter our mood, emotional state, and even our physical actions – music can pump us up and we run faster or try harder, or music can calm our bodies and minds to lead us to sleep.

    Music is healing. We all know it but perhaps we can be more intentional about our use of music as a medicine in our daily lives…but how?

    I think the most obvious way to incorporate a little musical healing into your life is through its power to affect your mood and emotional state. Select music that you need for the moment, be intentional. Here’s some simple flute music I wrote that helps me relax and helps my kids drift off to sleep.

    And it doesn’t have to be tranquil flute music! I truly enjoy getting a ton of energy out with my two boys while listening to heavier, more aggressive music – its a fantastic release for emotions and physical expression.

    But is feeling relaxed really “healing”?

    Okay, music can get our blood going or lull us into a relaxed state and every emotion in between, but what healing effects can we expect from a reduction in stress?

    Here are 10 ways relaxation can positively impact your health:

    1. Enhances Concentration
      When stress starts to overwhelm your ability to concentrate, completing even simple tasks can become challenging. Engaging in relaxation techniques offers an alternative focus, providing your mind with the opportunity to clear and regain concentration.
    2. Supports Digestive Health
      Experts in digestion suggest that relaxation can alleviate symptoms for individuals with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders by reducing pain and managing irritability.
    3. Boosts Blood Circulation
      Relaxation facilitates a slight widening of arteries, which promotes increased blood flow. This augmentation enhances the delivery of oxygen to body tissues.
    4. Alleviates Anger and Frustration
      Muscle tension often accompanies feelings of anger or frustration, indicating stress. Employing relaxation techniques can aid in loosening tense muscles and promoting a sense of calmness.
    5. Reduces Blood Pressure
      Attaining a state of relaxation prompts a decrease in breathing rate, which subsequently slows down other bodily functions, including heart rate. This reduction in heart rate contributes to an overall decrease in blood pressure.
    6. Mitigates Stroke Risk
      Recent research indicates that individuals who effectively manage stressful events have a 24% lower risk of stroke. Therefore, incorporating relaxation techniques can serve as a valuable coping strategy.
    7. Fosters Emotional Well-Being
      Chronic stress has been associated with neuronal damage, with elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol potentially leading to reduced serotonin and dopamine levels, thus contributing to depression.
    8. Diminishes Fatigue
      Practicing relaxation techniques, especially in conjunction with maintaining consistent sleep patterns and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, can enhance the quality of sleep. By alleviating stressors before bedtime, individuals may experience reduced restlessness.
    9. Reduces Inflammation
      Stress impedes the body’s ability to combat common illnesses such as colds, as heightened stress levels can accelerate inflammation, altering the immune response. A weakened immune system coupled with increased inflammation heightens susceptibility to feeling unwell.
    10. Slows Heart Rate
      Stress elevates the risk of cardiovascular issues such as high blood pressure and heart attacks. By inducing relaxation, individuals can protect their hearts by slowing down their heart rate.

    This is a huge topic and there’s a lot more to cover, but I hope this article shows that humans have been using music for a wide variety of reasons for a long time and that healing is one of those reasons.

    Listen or play music and it certainly won’t hurt your chances of living a healthier life!