Healing vs. Cure
The past couple of weeks I’ve been teaching a Lifetime Learning course on music and wellness at the local university. Near the end of last week’s class, one of the participants asked if I could talk to them about how to use music for healing. We had a terrific discussion about it, and I thought I’d share some thoughts here since it’s one of the topics I get asked about the most.
Healing vs. cure
First, “healing” and “cure” are two different things.
In my mind, “cure” is what happens when whatever disorder or disease you have is completely eradicated from your system. For example, the doctor diagnoses you with pneumonia. You take antibiotics for a period of time, and you’re cured. The disease or disorder is eradicated from your body, and you don’t suffer with it anymore.
On the other hand, “healing” is what happens when you have a condition that won’t necessarily completely disappear, but it can be managed so that you’re able to live a functional and productive life. For example, you break your leg. You wear a cast for a period of time, and your leg is healed. You may have a scar as a result, or you may experience weakness/tenderness in that leg for a long time afterwards. You’re able to go about your normal daily routine, but some activities (like mountain hiking or skiing) may be limited for the rest of your life as a result of that break.
Healing versus cure.
How does music fit in?
Music is an effective aid in healing. It’s by no means a replacement for medical or pharmacological care, but it can be used in addition to whatever course of treatment your healthcare professional suggests. There is research supporting the use of music in mental, emotional, psychological, and physical areas. Several of my other blog posts discuss how music can help with depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and more. It can be used as an aid for sleep, stress, and simply managing the daily challenges life throws our way.
If you’re curious about how music might be able to help you, I’m always available to answer your questions. You can e-mail me anytime or call 256-655-0648 during normal business hours. I’d be happy to chat!
