Learning How to Play Guitar for Mental Wellness

One of the most ever-evolving and broadest fields in therapeutic practice is music therapy. This field allows for the usage of music and music-based experiences in order to address the individuals' needs in one or more domains of human function such as physical, cognitive, academic, and emotional/psychological. Evidence suggests that music therapy is beneficial both physically and mentally: improved heart rate, improved memory, reduced anxiety, enhanced communication, and increased joy. There are two distinct types of music therapy- receptive and active/expressive music therapy. Throughout my Minerva Exploration experience, I primarily engaged with active music therapy as that allows for the individual to learn how to play and make music. Over this school year, I was given the opportunity to teach myself how to play guitar. I specifically chose the guitar as it is one of the most versatile, portable, and accessible instruments that allow me to play many different genres of music. Once I had heard about the research on music therapy, I had decided to learn how to play guitar in order to reduce ongoing anxiety and stress via the rhythmic and almost pattern-like nature of playing it. After I had learned the basic chords using the tablature notation, I realized that most songs use the same chords over and over again, meaning that I now can play songs to reflect my mood. It allows me the chance to self-reflect and those that listen to me play understand how I’m feeling at the moment.