The Breath
It is to no surprise that deep breathing is common to all meditative and prayer traditions. Ancient breathing strategies may include yoga and transcendental meditation. When palliative patients are approaching end of life the breath is central to their process. Breathing deeply calms and nurtures us, grounding us in body, mind, and spirit to in still wellness.
The breath is directly connected and integrated with the voice. Breath control has health benefits as it promotes relaxation, and decreases tension, anxiety, and pain. Through deep breathing the nervous system is able to recharge electrically so it is able to function at full capacity. The Music Therapist can model deep-relaxed breathing, and use breathing exercises to help palliative patients become more grounded. It will then become easier for the patient to be emotionally present in the moment in order to reach a state of balance.
Pre-Composed Songs
Music Therapists can instruct palliative patients to choose a song that best describes what they are experiencing and feeling. Pre-composed songs can serve as a coping mechanism as it validates and supports their unique life experiences. Patients are able to work through feelings or issues and develop coping strategies with the Music Therapist’s assistance. Songs give life meaning and patients are able to develop a greater sense of insight and spirituality as they reach the end of their life.
Songwriting and Composing
Songwriting in a group or individual setting gives voice to the sounds of someone’s illness. Song lyrics that are based on the patient’s feelings and thoughts can be set to pre-existing or original music. These compositions aid patients in developing coping skills, dealing with reality of loss, and learning how to respond to life changes. The Music Therapist often chooses topics related to validation, understanding, remembering, and growing to aid with the natural process of advancing through end of life stages.
These patients can also do legacy work where they create a short biography or life review by forming a compilation of songs that are associated with milestones in their life. Through the creation of a legacy patients are able to reflect on one’s accomplishments, understand life experiences, and make amends for past events. Some patients may choose to record and sing a set songs that have shaped who that person has become today. Music therapy in this context focuses on helping people find meaning from life experiences and provide a sense of closure before dying. It is also an extremely meaningful project for family members and close friends as they have a something to treasure and aid in their grieving process after their loved one has past.