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Music surrounds us – birds twittering, hearts beating, even the cadence of a human voice speaking can sound melodious. In addition to having universal appeal, music has the ability to connect, transport and heal. In this issue, The Power of Music, we explore the ways that music affects and transforms our lives.

Our cover stories highlight how some of the healing qualities of music can be applied. In her article, “Therapeutic Music: A Universal Gift for Healing,” Carol J. Spears discusses the work of Certified Music Practitioners (CMPs), who provide patients with passive, live acoustic music in order to help stabilize vital signs, assist relaxation and ease the transition of death. She explains, “Music is a particular type of organized sound, and it can be used to affect healing of the human mind/body/spirit in myriad ways.''

In the second cover story, “The Healthy Sound of Music,” Neal Szpatura also delves into ways that music can be applied for health and wellness, specifically exploring the work of Don Campbell, author of the book, The Mozart Effect. Neal writes, “Studies of sound and music provide a solid functional interface between modern medical science and alternative healing/spiritual wisdom traditions. Campbell's work offers comprehensive, powerful guidance on developing the body-mind-spirit interconnection and strengthening it via sound. Using music, we can pump up our creativity, relaxation, healing and spirituality.”

The article in our Movement Arts department focuses on capoeira, a form of Brazilian martial arts that is practiced to music produced on gourd instruments, drums and tambourines, as well as by singing and clapping. Author "Dentista" Steven DeAllen Young writes, “Music sets the pace of the jogo (game) and dictates how the capoeiristas will move and respond to each other during the game. Capoeira is the only martial art that requires practitioners to sing and play an instrument, essential elements to understanding the game and advancing in rank.”

Music has existed since the beginning of humankind. As you flip through the pages of this issue, consider music’s strength and power. It reaches far beyond the realm of entertainment. It unites us as humans. It helps us to meditate, connect with our higher selves and heal. It inspires us to move and be moved. Once you consider its far-reaching and universal appeal, you may even find yourself appreciating music in new ways.

Our love and blessings for a beautiful holiday,
Balanced Living Magazine