Amy Novotney's Music As Medicine

Amy Novotney's Music As Medicine

Music is something that a person hears at least once a day. Whether it be on the radio when driving to work, from the ice cream truck passing by in the neighborhood, or from a commercial on tv, music is everywhere. Music is deeply rooted in Western culture, and loved by the majority of people in society. Famous individuals like Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, and Ed Sheeran are well–known and respected for their music. People of many different ages listen to their songs and spend profuse amounts of money just to buy their albums or tickets to watch them in their concerts. These musical artists have a tremendous deal of influence over children and teenagers, and are idolized by them for their musical talents. Additionally, the themes in their songs engage ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...In "Music as Medicine," author Amy Novotney discloses that "the researchers found that listening to and playing music increase the body's production of the antibody immunoglobulin A and the natural killer cells" (Novotney). This increase in cells that benefits the body provides a person with improvements in health, and can positively affect their well–being. While being physically healthy, they are also mentally fit. In addition, the soothing sounds of music filters out negative thoughts and feelings, which can lower levels of stress. A person would have less stress and less of a chance of contracting a sickness or a disease. Novotney also mentions that "researchers found that patients who listened to relaxing music while getting an IV injection reported significantly less pain" (Novotney). The use of music redirects a patient's focus to the change of atmosphere rather than their comfort. The positive vibes from the relaxing music calms their nerves and softens the dreary mood of the hospital. In addition, music is also used as a form of therapy for behavioral issues. A study of children with aggressive behavior demonstrated that "children who participated in the music therapy sessions demonstrated statistically significant improvements in aggressive behavior and self–esteem" (Appello). Positive music can influence the mindset of a child and alleviate the negativity that is influenced by outside factors, such as issues socializing with other children their age. Songs filled with positive messages can change a child's thoughts to correspond with the messages expressed in the music. Instead of acting on their suppressed feelings or negative experiences, they are able to resolve their feelings through

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