The Music Therapy program at IU Indianapolis's Herron School of Art + Design champions the use of creative engagement and expression as healing practices. Research supports the use of music in particular for everything from improving respiration rates to relaxation for pain and stress management. Our program has always been committed to supporting our community through best practices in music therapy, now more than ever. With this one-page resource dedicated to self-care, we hope to provide you with a few avenues for exploring your personal music use and preferences as a means of creating culturally relevant and sustainable means for stress management in your own life.
Music for self-care and wellness
Resources
Music Listening Self – Assessment: This worksheet is designed to help you map out your personal music preferences for listening. You can use this worksheet as a source to consult in the future when you’re encountering a feeling that music listening may support you in processing.
Identity/Values Musical Collage: This worksheet includes a series of prompts on building a playlist that you can refer to whenever you’re feeling the need to validate yourself in the strength of who you are and what you value.
Music-Assisted Relaxation:
- This short Harp Relaxation worksheet walks you through some general breathing exercises and physical release.
- This longer Affirmations-based Relaxation worksheet will help you explore your personal sense of safety.
Ambient Playlists curated by members of the Herron School of Art + Design Music Therapy Program:
- Playlist of ambient music on Apple Music
- Collection of ambient music by Brian Eno on Spotify
Our friends at Riley Children’s Hospital have a great YouTube channel featuring their music therapy program.