Did you know that listening to the flute is good for your heart? A recent scientific study indicates listening to the Native American Flute may have beneficial effects for both the musician and the listener. It seems numerous cultures have known this for a great many years, but it was interesting to see actual data and research as it relates to this fact. As a musician, I find it remarkable how something as simple as a hand-made wooden instrument could have such an effect on the body in both the spiritual and physical level. I certainly feel the meditative response when I play the flute. The first thing that I notice is that it helps me focus on my breathing, which in turn helps me get into a focused meditative state. (suññatā). A while back, I attended a flute player’s workshop led by Dr. Clint Goss. Clint is an accomplished flute player, certified music facilitator, and holds a PhD in computer science. Clint discussed his research, which was done with co-researcher Dr. E.B Miller, on how we respond physically and mentally to the Native American Flute.
What they discovered in the research:
By using EEG, EKG and skin conductivity measurements on a controlled study group, they measured brain wave and heart response from both the listener and player. They found measurable changes in physiology, which resulted in a significant improved heart key metric. In other words, you could use the flute in therapeutic settings for specific clinical conditions. (Goss, C.)
What I learned from this:
For me, playing the flute makes me feel better. But there is clinical evidence that indicates an impact on a person mentally and physically. I knew from my own experience that playing the flute had an impact on my heartbeat, which I could feel and measure. What I did not know is that it had an impact on HRV, or “Heart Rate Variability. It seems HRV is a very reliable indicator of health and general resilience to stress. (Goss, C.). If you would like to dig deeper into the study, please click here: http://www.Flutopedia.com/ybof.htm
In the meantime, keep listening to your favorite flute composition or better yet, pick up a flute and start playing.
Namaste;
Rick
Sources:
Goss, C. and Miller, E. B. (2014). “Your Brain on Flute ”. Flutopedia: http://www.Flutopedia.com/ybof.htm, June 16, 2014. Retrieved (12-17-2014]