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Music for Life Aditi M Sengupta;Harvard Medical School Post Graduate Association Recently when I asked a friend how he was, he answered,:comfortable.That really made me wonder whether it meant complacent or a mental meditative peace which in recent times is referred to as zen kind of way? Infact in today's world its pretty awesome to proclaim the word comfortable--in ourselves,, clothes, lives, even in our surroundings.There is always something that is in our agenda , there is something more we want that needs to get balanced.I have several times questioned myself and my friends:What would define the time of your life? Once I heard a very good answer: "The time of one's life is defined in the moment." In this present moment of searching for the perspectives of life a power of 100 elderberries struck! A phone call from India, the demand of the family is an immediate return back following the threat of earthquake in Japan. And my plead:"Mom , it's supposed to be the time of my life and its just not the right time." This did not happen possibly one time..... And if it has already happened.... then that's kind of a let down for the rest of it, I would think. How to become copacetic in this situation which has triggered a stress response already? Only immunity and one order by popular demand: Music. Music soothes the body and soul. Even soft music can short circuit the stress response and prevent it from becoming chronic. The adverse effects of stress can be manifested as feelings of exhaustion, burnout, anger or depression as well as a myriad of physical ailments.Playing a musical instrument can switch off a stress response ; improving the quality of physical and emotional health. The central nervous system as welll as the peripheral nervous system are responsive to stress response.The response starts in the brain and then spreads to each and every cell of the body over a period of time if allowed to persist.Cells produce chemicals through an interplay of genetic mechanisms which is directed by the peripheral sensations being caught in the receptacles of a person's response to environment. Playing music stops the chain reaction of stress and let the genes get switched off at least temporarily. However, if one approaches music seriously, it will become less relaxing. Typically, making a music in an artistry which needs passion, practice performance and mastery. Recreational music making is to make oneself comfortable, with a kindling and nurturing of attitude and a creative experience with no influence of pressure from outside. Music is not an end product, it is a life long support for health and well being. It makes a permanent change in lifestyle and can be welcomed as an wellness activity. Research studies have found that playing an hour a week for six weeks can lower the stress response in an individual. In conclusion: Ask for it by name: Meditation with Music. An extract that can help you and your family stay healthy. So when everyone around you is angry, depressed, or frustarted, just help them to boost their stress combat challenge response in the system through a soft musical note. Acknowledgements: 1. Mind matters:Web MD Magazine, October, 2010. 2. Satsang at Ved Vignan Mahavidyapeeth programs, 2002-2010. 3. Centering Prayer:a Catholic Mission of Peace Special thanks to ; my Mother who volunteered to be a role model for me & an afternnon while volunteering for American Red Cross. Copyrighted 2011
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music, comfortable, complacent, stress response, emotional well being,
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