Harp Therapy

The world of music therapy is rapidly growing, and many harpist are getting involved. Harp therapy is one of the oldest methods of relaxation and restoration. The Biblical story of the harp being used to soothe an angry king was one the first things that drew my attention to the harp. (1Samuel 16:14) 

Recently, there have been multiple scientific studies on the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of harp music. Here are just a few experts from several different analyses. “Research has shown that music has a profound effect on your body and psyche. Those who practice music therapy are finding a benefit in using music to help cancer patients, children with ADD, and others, and even hospitals are beginning to use music and music therapy to help with pain management, to help ward off depression, to promote movement, to calm patients, to ease muscle tension, and for many other benefits that music and music therapy can bring.”


“Music therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety in patients receiving radiation therapy, as well as ease nausea and vomiting resulting from high-dose chemotherapy. It can help people with autism to improve skills in areas such as communication, social skills, sensory issues, behavior, cognition, perceptual/motor skills, and self-reliance or self-determination.”In another research review, results showed that “music listening lowered blood pressure (which can also reduce the risk of stroke and other health problems over time), boost immunity, ease muscle tension, and more.”


Also, "Harp therapy has no undesired side effects which drugs can have, and it is non-intrusive. In a comprehensive study undertaken in San Diego, results show less fear, anxiety, and less pain medication was needed."