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Music as Therapy



The Healing Power of Music

There’s a reason we reach for music in moments of heartbreak, joy, reflection, and recovery. From ancient chants to modern playlists, music has always held the power to comfort, connect, and heal. But did you know there’s real science behind why music can be so transformative—especially for those healing from trauma?

In this post, we’re diving into the brain’s response to music, exploring how music therapy is used to support trauma recovery, and sharing a healing playlist of 20 songs designed to help soothe the soul.

The Science Behind Music and the Brain

  1. Music activates the whole brain.According to neuroscientist Daniel Levitin, music engages multiple brain regions simultaneously—including areas responsible for emotion (amygdala), memory (hippocampus), motor skills (cerebellum), and reward (nucleus accumbens). This widespread activation is rare for any single activity and may explain why music is such a powerful integrative tool for healing.

  2. Music reduces cortisol, the stress hormone.A 2013 study published in PLoS ONE showed that listening to relaxing music before a stressful event can reduce cortisol levels. Lower cortisol = less stress on the body and nervous system.

  3. Music can rewire trauma responses.Trauma often causes dysregulation in the nervous system, making it hard to feel safe or calm. Research by Dr. Stephen Porges, creator of the Polyvagal Theory, suggests that listening to certain types of music can stimulate the vagus nerve, activating the parasympathetic nervous system (rest-and-digest mode) and helping the body move out of a chronic state of fight-or-flight.

  4. Music supports emotional processing.In trauma recovery, it’s often difficult to access and express emotions. Music provides a safe container for feeling without words—helping listeners grieve, release, or even reclaim joy.

  5. Music builds new neural pathways.Repeated exposure to healing music can create new, positive associations in the brain. Over time, this contributes to neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to form healthier emotional responses.

What Is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is a clinical and evidence-based practice that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. It’s especially effective in trauma recovery, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Music therapists may use instruments, guided listening, songwriting, and rhythm exercises to help clients regulate emotions, build confidence, and process memories safely.

Organizations like the American Music Therapy Association have documented its benefits in veterans, abuse survivors, and individuals recovering from addiction or chronic stress.

How You Can Use Music for Healing

  • Create a calm-down playlist with soft, instrumental, or nature-infused tracks. Use it during stressful moments or as a bedtime wind-down tool.

  • Let music move your body—dance, stretch, or sway to rhythm. This somatic connection helps trauma move through and out of the body.

  • Journal to music. Pick a song that stirs emotion and write whatever comes up. No judgment.

  • Use headphones for immersive sound therapy. This enhances the brain’s response and minimizes outside distractions.

  • Sing or hum. The vibrations stimulate the vagus nerve, which can increase your sense of calm and safety.

20 Songs That Soothe the Soul

Here’s a mix of spiritual, ambient, indie, and lyrical tracks known for their calming, grounding, and uplifting qualities.

  1. “Weightless” – Marconi Union (Scientifically shown to reduce anxiety)

  2. “You Say” – Lauren Daigle

  3. “Saturn” – Sleeping At Last

  4. “Come As You Are” – Crowder

  5. “Breathe Me” – Sia

  6. “Hallelujah” – Jeff Buckley

  7. “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” – Hillsong UNITED

  8. “River Flows In You” – Yiruma

  9. “Don’t Give Up” – Peter Gabriel ft. Kate Bush

  10. “Rescue” – Lauren Daigle

  11. “Let It Be” – The Beatles

  12. “Healing Is In Your Hands” – Christy Nockels

  13. “The Light” – The Album Leaf

  14. “This Is Me” – Keala Settle (The Greatest Showman)

  15. “Holocene” – Bon Iver

  16. “Lost In The Light” – Bahamas

  17. “In The Waiting” – Kina Grannis

  18. “Fix You” – Coldplay

  19. “Be Still” – The Killers

  20. “Gratitude” – Brandon Lake

Everyone’s healing soundtrack is personal, so explore what resonates with you. Whether it’s a tender piano piece or a gospel anthem, let your music meet you where you are.

Final Thoughts

Healing from trauma takes time, grace, and tools that reach beyond words. Music is one of those tools—deeply human, divinely inspired, and scientifically proven to heal.

So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, press play. Let the sound carry you, calm you, and remind you that you’re not alone.



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