3 Medical Reasons to Play Guitar

Doctors are saying that playing an instrument and listening to music can be like medicine. Neurologist are prescribing it for Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, stroke and depression. The beauty and power of music can bring clarity at times when the brain is out of balance. A student's father recently reminded us of Albert Einstein's interest in playing the violin. It is said that Einstein would retreat to playing his violin when he faced a difficult problem. I'm not Einstein but when I'm facing difficult situations or problems, I find my self retreating with my guitar to a quiet place to sing and play. 

1. Playing Guitar can strengthen your mind. Learning to play guitar (or any instrument you like) often challenges the student to think outside of the realm of every day activities. Playing can help you train your brain to focus quickly on what you are playing or learning to play. 

2. Playing guitar can alleviate  feelings of depression. Taking time to play a little everyday will be an escape for those who feel overwhelmed with work, school, and/or relationships. It is a chance to drift and focus on something other than your worries. Take note that this isn't a cure for depression but it can ease the feeling.

3. Playing guitar can promote hand-eye coordination. This is why it is good to have a mentor to teach you guitar. They have struggled through the moves. They can help you make fluid movements on the guitar. For people who are struggling with hand-eye coordination (children especially) it can become a great tool and gage for development. 

Just know that the number one reason to play guitar is to have fun! Playing should never be a task that brings pain. I don't like it when parents force their children to learn an instrument. I have children and I'm a musician but that doesn't mean that they have to be one too. Naturally my children enjoy music, dance, karate, coloring, painting, and creative activities. Notice that all of that is art based. Being a musician or a guitarist is an art form. The above three medical reasons to play guitar could very well be replaced with, 3 Medical Reasons to be an Artist. We all have an artistic side to us. Tapping into that side is like medicine to the heart, mind, body, and soul. Do your self a favor, pick something up and get creative! 

David Wayne Manning, DWM Guitar

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