Music for wellbeing
Did you know that music could help us find calm in the chaos?
Music has the power to connect us to ourselves and to others. Whether it's dancing to your favourite song, playing an instrument or belting out a classic as you do the dishes! Music has a way of helping us cope with the emotions and challenges that life throws our way.
We talk to Duncan from Soundwell, a local music therapy charity to find out how music therapy could support you.
What happens at music therapy?
“Soundwell runs various music therapy sessions, but we offer a regular group specifically for unpaid carers to attend. We warm-up with an improvised piece, we chat and find out how everyone is doing, then with the help of music therapists we create a few pieces of music together. This simple act of coming together to play music has been found to be effective in reducing stress and anxiety levels.”
I find the sounds we make together are really special – both calming and stimulating. I went away from the last session feeling more able to cope with what life is demanding of me right now.
How can music therapy help unpaid carers like me?
“Music therapy can give you time to focus on your own wellbeing and do something nourishing for yourself. It’s a chance to try something new, be playful and nurture your creativity, perhaps exploring a new side to yourself.
It’s also a chance to meet others who also look after someone and share your experiences with people who understand. There’s a real sense of community in the group. You’ll leave our sessions feeling relaxed and recharged!”
But I'm not a musician! Can I still attend?
“Of course! You do not need any previous musical skills or experience, at Soundwell we are focused on expression and creativity. We have lots of accessible instruments to explore, where there is no right or wrong way of playing them! Also, you are welcome to just sit and listen.”
Music can also help the people that we look after. We’ve seen music draw out memories from those with dementia and provide a nonverbal way for those with autism to communicate and express themselves. Music can be a powerful tool to help the people we care for feel engaged and connected to us.
Take a step towards self-care and explore how music can be a part of your journey.
Book your free music therapy sessions with Soundwell
Contact Duncan on 07423 400 655 or at duncan.stagg@soundwell.org.uk
Time: Monthly on Fridays, 11am – 12:15pm (Optional to attend as one-off sessions or more regularly)
Location: Scout HQ, 7 Grove Street, Bath, BA2 6PJ