THE MEDICINE CABINET WITHIN: Music as Medicine

By Joshua Phillips, ND

Whether you align more with conventional medicine, holistic and alternative medicine or some combination of the two, chances are good a lot of it revolves around what you are consuming by mouth, one to three times daily. We live in a health care culture that is hyper-focused on solutions to health and illness being the foods we eat, alongside some combination of capsules — herbal, supplemental or pharmaceutical, tak en several times a day. Without a doubt, these approaches have their place in health care (I must admit I recommend them all the time) and contribute to a degree of our well-be ing. To put all of our health care focus into the foods and pills we are consuming, however, is to lose sight of what’s possible in terms of greater health and vitality.

We are also thinking, feeling, spiritual and creative beings, and as it turns out, these aspects of our human experience have a huge impact on our physiology and play an important role in influencing our health. The concept of mind-body medicine has been around for a long time and has been proven again and again through virtually every field of medicine, demonstrating the inextricable link between our thoughts, feelings and biochemical/ physiological processes. While meditation, yoga and other mind-body practices have rightfully earned their place in self-care in the West, the arena of art and music as medicine, and the influence of creativity on health is still gaining traction.

We humans have a seemingly inherent love and attraction to harmonious sound and music and have woven it into the tapestry of every aspect of our lives, regardless of what culture, religion or ethnicity we are from. Our internal experience of being inspired by making or listening to music seems to elevate our sense of well-being, creates connections within communities and brings a deeper sense of meaning and purpose to our lives.

As it turns out, engaging in music making and even just experiencing music has a huge impact on our bodies as well, and contributes to a physiologic environment that is consistent with a healthy and balanced endocrine system, nervous system and immune system. Creative and inspirational practices really should be considered tools for both preventative medicine as well as supportive treatment for existing health concerns.

The research and data that has been compiled on these topics is impressive and includes studies that look at the effects of many areas of human creativity — sound and music, visual arts, and creative writing, to name a few. One collaborative study between a medical team and Remo drums demonstrated that group hand-drumming lowered stress and fatigue and improved immune system function in participants.

Multiple oncology studies have been done using music therapy, demonstrating improved outcomes in cancer patients. Additionally, we have studies on how playing piano and other instruments, as well as simply listening to relaxing music will lower cortisol and other stress hormones that are known to contribute to chronic disease.

Patients involved in a National Institute of Health-sponsored stroke-recovery study proved that listening to music hastened their recovery, contributing to cognitive and other neurological symptom improvement. Those that also included singing in their program recovered even more quickly from depression and confusion.

Another study showed how group singing resulted in better immune system function than passive music listening alone. The list goes on, with volumes of research demonstrating how engaging in creative and musical activities lowers stress hormones and improves the balance of neurotransmitters, while also influencing a more balanced and effective immune system.

There is no doubt the foods we eat, and the supplements and medications we are using are important consider ations for our health and well-being. Perhaps though, making more space in our lives for our creative pursuits could mean another level of health, vitality and disease treatment and prevention. Making and enjoying music is not just inspiration for the mind and spirit, but also informs and inspires our bodies physically at the same time. Perhaps the prescription pad of the future will include fewer pills to take three times a day, and more recommendations for musical and creative self-care.

—Joshua Phillips, ND, is a naturo pathic physician and director at Haw thorn Healing Arts Center in Bend. This article is not intended as medical advice, but for informational purposes only.

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FURNISHED CONDO IN NWX 2578 NW POMPY PLACE

Unit 24 offers 620 sq ft with 1 bedroom, 1 bath, single car garage, & a balcony overlooking the Bungalows. Designer finishes throughout. Fully furnished and ready for your personal touches!

OFFERED AT $499,000

LUXURY HOMESITE IN WESTGATE 62333 MCCLAIN corner lot with unobstructed southern exposure and views offers incredible passive solar and solar opportunities.

OFFERED AT $399,000

PANORAMIC AWBREY BUTTE VIEWS 3240 NW METKE PLACE

One of the few remaining vacant Cascade mountain view lots in the coveted Awbrey Butte neighborhood. The property is elevated and the 0.74 acre size offers considerable privacy from nearby homes.

OFFERED AT $485,000

NORTHWEST CROSSING CONDO 1627 NW WILLIAM CLARK STREET Nestled in the Bungalows at Northwest Crossing, this unit offers 1401 sq ft with 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a 2 car garage. Close to shopping, parks, schools, hiking, and biking trails.

OFFERED AT $699,000

1116 NW PORTLAND AVE, BEND 97701 • $1,275,000

Price

Perfect 3 unit investment property in the heart of everything Bend. Seller is offering a $25,000 credit with a full price offer. Close to downtown, the Deschutes river, grocery shopping, shopping shopping and all of the best pubs and restaurants that Bend has to offer. Unit 1 is 2 bed 1 bath on the ground level and has been updated throughout the years. Unit 2 upstairs is 2 bed 1 bath and has been beautifully updated. Also has a great porch with amazing city views. Unit 3 is a detached ADU and is a studio with 1 bath. Great rental history on all of the units and you can’t beat the location. Also potential space for adding additional units. Great opportunity to invest in Bend.

16561 SW CHINOOK DR, TERREBONNE 97760 • $1,200,000

Unique 3bedroom 3.5bath luxury home on 7.05 acres, boasts beautiful panoramic canyon views, as well as the Cascade, and smith rocks. New flooring throughout, fully remodeled both downstairs bathrooms. This equestrian property features horse barn with 4 12x12’ stalls, insulated & heated tack room w/hot and cold water, 2 6’ sliding doors and 2 overhead doors(rollup door for hay). 2 large pasture pens with heated water stations. Newly built 40x48’ RV shop with pull-through RV access, along with two other shop/garage buildings for storage and more. New well pump installed 2022. The perfect fit for Horse-Owners, Business Owners, & golfers!

19460 SW CENTURY DRIVE, BEND 97702 • $999,950

Beautiful recently updated Chalet home on Bends Westside. This 3 bedroom 3 bath features a HUGE primary bedroom with walk-in tile shower and soaking tub. Open floor plan is great for entertaining which boasts 24’ vaulted ceiling, exposed wood beams, and large bay windows. Other primary features are a home theater, loft, sauna, hot tub, and partially finished basement! The home sits on just about half an acre with room for potential ADU, Deschutes river access within half a mile, minutes from Mt. Bachelor, Cascade lakes, & hiking trails.

2655 SW WICKIUP AVE, REDMOND 97756 • $480,000

This 3-bedroom 2 bath recently updated light and bright, single level home, features open floor plan with plenty of natural light. Situated on an oversized city lot with RV parking. New Roof, New Paint, brand new landscaping. Move in Ready. The fenced back yard features a deck with a privacy enclosure, numerous mature trees. 940 sq ft garage with separate shop space. Conveniently located in SW Redmond, minutes away from parks, schools, and downtown.

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SATURDAY 11–1

When it comes to the real estate market in Bend, there is an intriguing contrast between the east side and west side of town. While both areas offer unique charm and desirable features, it’s important to understand the key differences between the two when considering a property purchase. In this week’s article we will delve into the distinctions that make the east side and west side of Bend stand out, helping you make an informed decision about which area aligns best with your lifestyle and preferences.

Location and Geography

Bend’s west side is characterized by its proximity to the Deschutes River, Deschutes National Forest and the iconic Old Mill District! The area boasts stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, providing an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise with easy access to hiking and biking trails. On the other hand, the east side of Bend offers a more high-desert landscape with sprawling sagebrush plains and expansive vistas. It is a popular choice for those seeking a quieter atmosphere away from the popular tourist areas and the bustling downtown area.

Lifestyle and Amenities

The west side of Bend is known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere. It is home to a plethora of trendy shops, restaurants and breweries, as well as the historic downtown area. With a variety of entertainment options and a bustling nightlife (disclaimer: for an outdoorsy/ tourist town) the west side appeals to individuals who thrive in a more “urban” setting. On the contrary, the east side of

Bend offers a more tranquil and family friendly environment. It features numerous parks, schools, and community centers, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a peaceful neighborhood with a strong sense of community.

Housing Market

The real estate market on Bend’s west side tends to be more established and densely populated. Victorian-style homes and historic bungalows line the streets, blending seamlessly with modern single-family residences, condos and townhomes. Due to its high demand and limited inventory, the west side often commands higher property prices compared to the east side. On the east side, you’ll find a mix of newer developments and single family homes offering more affordable options for homebuyers. This area presents an opportunity for a quieter neighborhood and a potentially more budget-friendly investment.

Outdoor recreation

Bend is renowned for its year-round outdoor recreational opportunities and both the east and west sides have their fair share of attractions. The west side boasts immediate access to the Deschutes River and the famous Bend Whitewater Park, where kayaking, surfers, tubers and paddleboarding enthusiasts flock. The east side, meanwhile, offers proximity to the Badlands Wilderness and of course the ever popular Pilot Butte State Park, great for exercise and views! Whether you prefer water-based activities or exploring nature’s wonders, Bend has something to offer on both sides of town.