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Wellness and overall well-being has become a very important focus for most of us these days. Diet, proper exercise, relaxation and healthy habits contribute to our overall quality of life and chosen lifestyles. Just as a healthy diet of food is so vital in creating our wellness nutritionally, our choice of 'musical diet' is very important as well. We may like to 'feast' on our favourite music to enhance our moods and emotions and also 'snack' on sound bites that give us spurts of energy or relaxation. Dr. Emoto, Japanese researcher and photographer has spent many years researching the effects sound has on water, and uses a very special photographic technique in order to capture the shapes the water forms in its response to sound and music. In his book,' The Hidden Messages in Water', Dr. Emoto has captured the significant effect of sound on water. These photos illustrate the various shapes that water becomes when responding to sound vibrations. When heavy metal was played, the water formed sharp and jagged patterns, yet when classical music was played, lovely 'snowflake-like' patterns formed on the water. Music functions on a vibrational level, and truly alters our cellular make- up. Since we are made up of over 70% water, it is very important to consider carefully the music we choose for our daily diet. Spa=Santum Per Aquam (Healing through water) and it is interesting how music can be carefully chosen to heal and rejuvenate us. As a flutist for over 27 years, I have always been able to use my music as a personal elixir. Whenever I felt a headache or stomach ache coming on, and my flute was nearby, I would 'play the pain away'. Now, I find that listening to classical, sound healing, jazz, and world music, causes me a similar sensation. I believe that music is truly transportive, and frees the soul and opens the heart. Music can be used as a natural health remedy and can quiet the mind as well. Our musical diet, indeed is very important, and we can specifically design it for many times during our busy days: driving to and from work, (a great road rage diffuser), at our computer quietly whilst working, after work, unwinding in the bath, and accompanying rest times. By choosing what suits your personal lifestyle needs and taste, you may come up with your own personalized 'menu of music'. Laura Nashman is flutist/founder of Spa-la-la, a specialty instrumental CD label, featuring award-winning recording artists on chamber music CD's, solo piano, lullaby and sound healing. She also co-ordinates live music ensembles for social events, weddings and corporate events. Her "Passionata" and "Seasons of Love" CD's make for great Valentine's gifts and year round musical enjoyment. |
