I came across this post today and wanted to share it. I found it interesting and music is something that most of us have access to and enjoy.
The Chinese word, or character, for medicine comes from the character for music. . FROM AN INTERVIEW with GAO YUAN . Q: There is an old belief, now being revisited, that music has the power to heal. Where does this idea come from, and how does it apply to traditional Chinese music?
GY: Our ancestors believed that music had the power to harmonize a person’s soul in ways that medicine could not. In ancient China, one of music’s earliest purposes was for healing. The Chinese word, or character, for medicine actually comes from the character for music.
During the time of the Great Yellow Emperor (2698-2598 B.C.E.), people discovered the relationship between the pentatonic scale, the five elements, and the health five internal and five sensory organs. During Confucius time, scholars used music’s calming properties to improve strengthen people’s character and conduct.
Today, scientific research has also validated music’s therapeutic ability to lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, enhance concentration, stabilize heart rate, and more.
Lauren Daniels, L.Ac. Dipl. Ac. (NCCAOM) TLC Acupuncture 908.379.8600 346 South Avenue Suite 4 Fanwood, NJ 07023