We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Suzanne Hanser and Annette Philip

You love music. You listen to music all the time. Maybe you sing, play an instrument, or compose music. You don’t need to have musical talent to use music to enhance your well being, and even your health.

Learn simple techniques to enrich your mind, body, and spirit through music. The methods can be applied in your daily life, particularly when you are feeling down or stressed out. Developed by a board-certified music therapist and a vocalist/pianist/composer/recording artist specializing in Indian music, these strategies combine science with the wisdom of Eastern philosophy.

Read more

You love music. You listen to music all the time. Maybe you sing, play an instrument, or compose music. You don’t need to have musical talent to use music to enhance your well being, and even your health.

Learn simple techniques to enrich your mind, body, and spirit through music. The methods can be applied in your daily life, particularly when you are feeling down or stressed out. Developed by a board-certified music therapist and a vocalist/pianist/composer/recording artist specializing in Indian music, these strategies combine science with the wisdom of Eastern philosophy.

In the course, discover how to unlock your creativity. You will learn not only how to listen to music in a new way, but also how to listen to the impact that music has on you. You will find out how to care for yourself by practicing coping techniques that are supported by music that is special to you.

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • The effects music has on the body and the brain
  • Strategies and techniques for regulating emotions and stress by integrating music with ancient practices such as mantra and pranayama
  • The scientific underpinnings that support the efficacy of ancient traditional practices used to promote wellness
  • How and why music can help you to live a happier, healthier life

Syllabus

Lesson 1: Expressing your creativity
Introduction on singing and songwriting techniques
Role of rhythm and chanting / engaging the body as an instrument (clapping, stomping, dancing)
Read more
Circle singing exercise - get up and dance! (collective recording experience)
Process of creating a song
Application for real life
Lesson 2: Music Techniques for Comfort
PMR Explained
PMR Exercise
Pranayama Explained
Pranayama Exercise
Elements of a lullaby
Lesson 3: Music Techniques for Awakening
What is Flow?
What is Mantra? History, meaning, importance. Short excerpt of a well known mantra (Find diverse mantras from different cultures)
Guided meditation for awakening (western classical - for instance, Chopin’s raindrop prelude)
Elements of a jingle (give an example)
Lesson 4: Finding Your Special Music
Who are you… what music has shaped you over the years?
What is a Personal Playlist?
Develop a Playlist, based on the specific type of impact each song has on you work)
How to create Daily Practice using your special music (Bottom half of Pg 37)
Application for real life and enhancing overall wellness

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores the intersection of music, wellness, and ancient Eastern practices, offering a unique perspective on holistic health
Suitable for individuals with or without musical talent, making it accessible to a wide range of learners
Taught by a board-certified music therapist and a vocalist/pianist/composer/recording artist, providing expertise in both music and healthcare
Practical techniques and strategies are emphasized, enabling learners to apply their knowledge immediately
Covers scientific underpinnings and ancient practices, offering a balanced approach to wellness
Emphasizes using music for self-care and stress reduction, highlighting its positive impact on mental well-being

Save this course

Save Music For Wellness to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Music For Wellness with these activities:
Review Eastern Philosophy and Ancient Practices
Deepen your understanding of the ancient practices discussed in the course and their historical context.
Show steps
  • Research ancient philosophies and practices like yoga, meditation, and mantra.
  • Read texts or articles about their principles and applications.
  • Watch documentaries or attend online lectures to gain insights from experts.
Read 'The Power of Music' by Elena Mannes
Explore the scientific and emotional connections between music and well-being, gaining insights into its therapeutic applications.
View Soul Dog on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book and engage with the author's perspectives.
  • Reflect on your personal experiences with music and its impact on your mood and emotions.
  • Identify key takeaways and how they align with the course's themes.
Review Music Theory
Review core music theory concepts to strengthen your understanding of musical expression and composition.
Browse courses on Harmony
Show steps
  • Revisit fundamental concepts like scales, chords, and intervals.
  • Practice recognizing and writing different types of chords and scales.
  • Analyze chord progressions and melodic patterns in familiar songs.
  • Compose short melodies or chord progressions to apply your knowledge.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Vocal Warm-Ups and Vocal Exercises
Regular vocal practice helps improve vocal range, control, and projection, enhancing your musical expression.
Browse courses on Singing
Show steps
  • Start with simple warm-ups like humming or lip trills.
  • Practice scales and arpeggios to improve vocal agility.
  • Sing exercises focusing on breath control and vocal projection.
Explore Music Production Software
Gain practical skills in using music production software to create and enhance your musical compositions.
Browse courses on Music Production
Show steps
  • Familiarize yourself with the interface and basic functions of the software.
  • Follow online tutorials to learn specific techniques like recording, editing, and mixing.
  • Experiment with different plugins and effects to expand your sonic palette.
Personalize Your Music Playlist
Craft a personalized playlist that reflects your musical preferences and helps you achieve specific emotional or therapeutic goals.
Show steps
  • Identify the emotions and experiences you want to evoke through music.
  • Explore different music genres and search for songs that resonate with your desired mood or purpose.
  • Compile a playlist that includes a variety of songs that match your emotional targets.
Participate in Music-Making Sessions
Engage with other musicians or learners to share ideas, collaborate on musical projects, and gain feedback.
Show steps
  • Connect with other musicians or enthusiasts online or in your local community.
  • Participate in online or in-person music-making sessions.
  • Collaborate on songwriting, arranging, or performing.
Compose a Musical Piece Inspired by the Course
Apply your knowledge and skills to create an original musical piece that reflects your understanding of the therapeutic benefits of music.
Browse courses on Music Composition
Show steps
  • Brainstorm ideas and choose a theme or concept for your composition.
  • Experiment with different musical elements such as rhythm, harmony, and melodies.
  • Refine and polish your composition, paying attention to flow and emotional impact.

Career center

Learners who complete Music For Wellness will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Music Therapist
Music Therapists can help people with emotional and physical issues manage their stress and anxiety. Enrolling in the Music For Wellness course would help you better understand music’s effect on people, how to integrate ancient practices, and how to use music to help others.
Music Director
Music Directors select music for various events. This role may also lead and conduct musical ensembles. Taking the Music For Wellness course may help you better understand how music impacts people emotionally and how you can leverage this understanding when selecting music.
Music Teacher
Music Teachers teach music to students of all ages. They may teach in schools, private studios, or community centers. Enrolling in the Music For Wellness course can provide you with strategies for helping your students relax, manage stress, and express their creativity through music.
Audio Engineer
Audio Engineers manage the technical aspects of recording, mixing, and mastering music. They work in a variety of settings, such as recording studios, concert halls, and broadcast facilities. Understanding how music affects people can help you excel as an Audio Engineer and produce high-quality audio content.
Music Producer
Music Producers oversee the recording and production of music. They work with musicians, engineers, and other professionals to create a final product. Taking the Music For Wellness course may give you insights into how music affects people emotionally. This understanding may help you make better decisions about the music you produce.
Music Journalist
Music Journalists write about music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They may also work as critics, reviewers, or interviewers. Taking the Music For Wellness course can help you gain a deeper understanding of music and its impact on people. This knowledge can make your writing more informed and engaging.
Music Administrator
Music Administrators manage the business and operational aspects of music organizations. They may work for orchestras, opera companies, or music festivals. Enrolling in the Music For Wellness course might provide you a deeper grasp of music’s impact on people and how to utilize that knowledge in your administrative role.
Music Librarian
Music Librarians manage and organize music collections in libraries and archives. They may also work with patrons to find and access music resources. Taking the Music For Wellness course may give you a wider understanding of music and its impact on people. This knowledge can be beneficial in helping patrons find the music they need.
Musician
Musicians perform music for a variety of audiences. They may play in bands, orchestras, or as soloists. Enrolling in the Music For Wellness course might help you better understand the impact your music has on your audience and improve your performance.
Music Promoter
Music Promoters promote and organize concerts and other music events. They may work for venues, record labels, or music agencies. Taking the Music For Wellness course may aid you in comprehending the emotional impact of music and how to utilize that understanding when promoting music events.
Composer
Composers create original music. They may work in a variety of genres, including classical, jazz, and pop. Taking the Music For Wellness course can aid you in comprehending the emotional effects of music and how to evoke specific feelings in your compositions.
Sound Designer
Sound Designers create sound effects and music for video games, movies, and other forms of media. Enrolling in the Music For Wellness course may allow you to better grasp the emotional impact of sound and how to use it effectively in your work.
Music Therapist Intern
Music Therapist Interns work under the supervision of a licensed Music Therapist. They provide music therapy services to clients in a variety of settings. Enrolling in the Music For Wellness course while completing your internship can give you a strong foundation in the field.
Music Educator
Music Educators teach music in schools and other educational settings. They may specialize in a particular instrument or genre. Enrolling in the Music For Wellness course could help you better understand the impact of music on students and how to incorporate wellness practices into your teaching.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help people with disabilities or injuries to regain their independence. They may use a variety of techniques, including music therapy. Taking the Music For Wellness course may provide you with valuable insights into the use of music in occupational therapy.

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Music For Wellness.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the healing power of music. It includes case studies and stories from people who have used music to improve their health and well-being.
Provides a fascinating look at the relationship between music and the brain. It explores how music can affect our emotions, thoughts, and behavior.
Explores the origins of music and its role in human evolution. It provides a fascinating look at why music is so important to us.
Explores the fascinating relationship between music and the brain through the stories of people who have experienced musical delusions, amusia, and other musical disorders.
Provides a concise and accessible introduction to the study of music.
This companion provides a comprehensive overview of the study of music, covering a wide range of topics from history to theory to performance.
This history provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Western music.
This dictionary provides a comprehensive overview of the study of music.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Music For Wellness.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser