Ep. 28- The Power of Music with Megan Ronnow, Music Therapist
/Becky and Autumn sit down with Megan Ronnow, a music therapist. Megan lives in Murray, Utah and is the mom of three little girls. She loves hiking, embroidery, and photography.
Megan shares how music therapy can help heal the body and mind. She describes music therapy as an allied health profession that is a clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship with a credentialed professional who has completed a music therapy program.
Megan explains that music therapy is used in Special Education, in hospitals, hospice, mental health, rehabilitation centers, and more. Music therapy is very individualized and can help us change our behaviors.
Megan describes how music therapy is helpful in easing anxiety, managing pain, and increasing mindfulness. It enhances quality of life and helps people stay in the present moment. When asked why music is so powerful, Megan explains that music facilitates an emotional release. It’s a way of communicating without speaking and can improve listening skills. It also helps resolve conflicts and increases self-respect and self- esteem.
The idea of music therapy helping people find their voice resonates with those who suffer from trauma. So often, those who experience trauma feel they can’t communicate their feelings. Writing songs or being part of a drum circle gives us a voice without having to speak. It helps vocalize the ways in which we are hurting.
Megan has found that meeting people where they are, instead of being dismissive of their feelings, is what has helped engage and heal those she works with.
For those who are unable to have formal music therapy, Megan suggests putting together playlists that contain songs that go along with certain types of emotions we may be feeling. This has a way of supporting us where we are, instead of thinking we “shouldn’t” be experiencing the emotions we’re experiencing.
Other helpful things to do include chanting, affirmations, deep breathing, focusing on the present moment, and drumming. Music therapy looks different for everyone.
Megan’s favorite resources:
MUSIC!
Writing your own songs
Breathing
Your favorite music
Megan’s song:
“Youth” by Daughter
