By Carole R. DiZeo, MPS
Often you hear people say that music “soothes the soul.” Not only does music “soothe the soul” it also promotes healing. The Living Water Flute Circle, from Downers Grove, IL, started as a support group for cancer patients. When I joined I was invited as a chaplain. I sat next to people and across from people who had various forms of cancer.
What was so amazing is that unless you knew ahead of time who had cancer and who didn’t, you would have never known by the way each person was so engaged in their flute playing. Not one flute circle member dwelled on their illness. The way in which each person played their flute was mesmerizing.
Everyone played so beautifully that the sound practically put you into a trance. That “trance-like” feeling freed my mind and body of any worry or concern. Each time I played my flute, and listened to others play, I felt so uplifted in mind, body, and spirit. There were numerous cases where, because of the healing powers of the music and the positive energy, people’s cancer went into remission or completely left their bodies! Music has a therapeutic effect on a person’s well-being. Even people who are dying have a sense of calm and peacefulness when they listen wholeheartedly to the music.
Once a month, at Presence Heritage Village in Kankakee, IL, I conduct a flute circle for our residents. There is such joy and contentment on the faces of our residents as they relax in the healing powers of the flute.
Carole R. DiZeo is spiritual care director for Presence Health at Heritage Village in Kankakee, IL. This article was first published in a Heritage Village newsletter called Heritage Herald. Heritage Village offers a continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, rehabilitation services, sheltered care, and intermediate and skilled nursing care.
