Category: music therapy

Parkinsons Gave Me A Terrific Gift!

Fine Art Photographer Alan Babbitt was diagnosed with Parkinsons in 2003 with a nasty hand tremor – just what a STILL photographer needs! After struggling to compensate for the shakiness, he had an epiphany.

He realized he could use the tremor (and other movements) as an art technique, leading to a large body of work he calls Un-Still Photography: The Art of Motion Within a Still.

But what really got shook up was me, Babbitt continues. Turning my tremor into something useful was an incredibly empowering game changer – boosting my confidence, mood and energy. It freed me up and allowed me to reach new levels of creative expression. But best of all, the fun and joy of photography came back. All thanks to that pesky Parkinsons tremor! Is that weird or what? The damn disease has given me a terrific gift!

See Alans Un-Still Photography at https://www.abproductions.com

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

 

Neurologic Music Therapy for Parkinson’s

Kris Warren, a documentary filmmaker, is producing an exciting new film about how clinical Music Therapy and Neurologic Music Therapy are being used as options for treating symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease and many other populations.

He is also a music artist who discovered Music Therapy recently in August 2013. Kris wrote a song about how music is his therapy not knowing that Music Therapy is a viable and effective treatment option. Since that moment, he went on a journey throughout the USA interviewing experts on Music Therapy and Neurologic Music Therapy for the upcoming documentary titled Music Is My Therapy:

www.musictherapydocumentary.com

Kris is joined by Professor Michael Thaut from Colorado State University. Dr. Thaut’s internationally recognized research focuses on brain function in music, especially time information processing in the brain related to rhythmicity and biomedical applications of music to neurological rehabilitation of cognitive and motor functions.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Song, Science and Spirit

We all need to be empowered now and then. Heather MacTavish has the magical touch – the unique ability to empowering us all just when we need it the most. Heather’s recent release of Songs Science and Spirit is a book that explains in delicious detail how music, song and drumming are natural medicines that offer profound relief from symptoms of Parkinsons Disease. Unike other medicines, her treatments involve no side effects – only improved well being and endless fun for all.

Since being diagnosed with Parkinsons Disease 14 years ago, Health MacTavish has created a book that is practical, inspiring and profound. It is a precious gift to anyone who currently experiences the symptoms of Parkinsons disease. Be prepared to be energized and inspired by a most remarkable talent, author, musician, singer, drummer and woman who inspires us all to become all that we are.

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

 

Music is a Powerful Therapy for Parkinson’s Symptoms

My guest Jodi Winnwalker, CEO of Earthtones Music Therapy Services in Portland, Oregon, has helped form a new music therapy group and choir in the Portland Metro area for people witt Parkinson’s Disease who talk too-softly (plus their care-partners and families). The choir is called The Tremble Clefs.

The goals of the project are to use researched- based-music-therapy techniques to improve vocal quality, strength, clarity, volume, projection, and breath support. In addition the program provides mental stimulation, promotes emotional well being & self esteem, provides opportunities for social connection & support in a wheelchair-accessible fun, success-oriented, musical environment at little to no cost.

As important, it provides an opportunity for the family members of people with PD to proactively participate while educating the public about what people with Parkinson’s Disease CAN DO. Learn More about the power of music to change the lives of patients and their families

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

Music is an Effective Therapy

Dr. Matt Ford, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy at the University of Alabama, Birmingham, is doing fascinating research using music as a therapy for persons who currently experience the symptoms of Parkinson’s. Dr. Ford will tell us how music can transform our lives and – at the same time – offer profound relief from Parkinson’s symptoms. Music therapy is 100% safe, 100% noninvasive and has no side effects.

Music can have a profound influence on your symptoms. Find out why!

Robert Rodgers PhD
Founder 2004
Parkinsons Recovery

 

Drumming, Stories and Songs

Heather MacTavish, diagnosed with Parkinsons in 1995, founded the New Rhythms Foundation in 1998 to bring rhythmic programs to persons diagnosed with chronic, degenerative and developmental disabilities. Heather combines creativity, science and art with spirit, acceptance and humor. She explains to us all how drumming and music have had a profound impact on her own life and the lives of many other persons diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease.

Music Therapy Helps You Feel Better

Wendy Magee, Ph.D., tells us all about the value of involving a music therapist on your recovery team. She is an International Fellow in Music Therapy at the Institute for Neuropalliative Rehabilitation in London, England.

Dr. Magee tells us why music helps to rewire neural networks and gives us an exciting preview of the value of singing and playing instruments. Listen and you will be inspired to get your instrument from high school out of your attic and begin playing again. Never played an instrument? After hearing the interview, be inspired to learn.