Music therapy can have a variety of physical and mental benefits. Music therapy can be utilized as part of a hospital program or can be taken on individually just by listening to music.[1] Music therapy can involve listening to music, playing music, dancing, singing, and writing or discussing song lyrics.[2] Music described as “alkaline” is best for relaxation and includes classical music, east Indian music, and music utilizing instruments such as the harp or the Brazilian guitar.[1] Slow orchestral music is also beneficial, as well as any music where there is one beat per second, low tones, and minimal percussion or brass.[3] Music therapy has been shown to improve mood, decrease anxiety and depression, and decrease symptoms such as shortness of breath and pain. Studies have shown that patients with cancer-related pain required less pain medications when undergoing music therapy. Studies in cancer patients showed decreased heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure, while studies in healthy people showed an increase in the amount and activity of immune cells for people practicing music therapy.[1] Additionally, binaural beats is a type of music utilizing different frequencies of sound to induce relaxation.[4] Music therapy is an easy way to improve quality of life for cancer patients

References

1.     Eldridge, Lynne. The Emotional and Physical Benefits of Music on Cancer Patients https://www.verywellhealth.com/benefits-of-music-therapy-for-cancer-patients-2248912 (accessed May 19, 2021).

2.     Music therapy https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-in-general/treatment/complementary-alternative-therapies/individual-therapies/music (accessed May 19, 2021).

3.     What Kind Of Music Is Used In Music Therapy? http://www.rocketswag.com/medicine/alternative-medicine/music-therapy/What-Kind-Of-Music-Is-Used-In-Music-Therapy.html (accessed May 19, 2021).

4.     Potter, Magnolia. Music Therapy: How Different Music Genres Affect Your Health https://makingmusicmag.com/music-genres-affect-health/ (accessed May 19, 2021).