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As a musician, Graham always knew how powerful an effect rhythm
has on people. Research shows the brain automatically responds
to rhythm, ‘tuning in’ to it and causing us to respond
by synchronising aspects of our behaviour to the tempo. The pay-off
is an increased sense of well-being and relaxation.
Tests on bed-bound hospital patients have shown
a reduction in blood pressure and stress. Research also shows
that music therapy reduces heart rate, respiration and body temperature.
It benefits mood and seems able to improve immune and hormone
function. Babies start responding to music from 25 At twenty five
weeks the baby can kick in time to music.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, especially the final trimester, there can be
anxiety about the impending birth. Regular listening to Calmtime
to help create a relaxed state during pregnancy can actually help
during the birth itself. By the time your baby is born, your body
will have learned to relax even more deeply to the music, as a
conditioned response. Talking of learning …
Learning in the Womb
Mothers-to-be are encouraged to play music to their unborn babies
because research has shown babies can respond to music and be
soothed by soft music before and after birth. According to Dr.
Thomas Verny, author or 'The Secret Life of the Unborn Child'
your baby can kick in time to music from 25 weeks.
Before the Birth
You may be experiencing mixed feelings as the birth is approaching
and wondering how you will handle the birth and motherhood. One
thing that can help is to find a way of relaxing on a regular
basis. With Calmtime you are not only relaxing yourself but also
your baby. This can prepare your baby for something familiar after
birth.
Labour
It has been recognised by many researchers, including the Royal
College of Midwives, that music is very useful during labour as
a distraction therapy. It breaks the vicious circle of fear-tension-pain.
Music therapy is rapidly gaining acceptance in the UK as the evidence
of its benefits grows. Regular listening during pregnancy strengthens
the effect during labour. In hospital delivery
rooms, music often is used to reduce a woman’s need for
medication during childbirth.
Newborn
When a young baby isn’t sleeping at all well it can affect
the whole family. Obviously with new born babies disruption is
expected but when the problem persists, sometimes for years, the
results can be devastating.
The right musical stimulation can enhance development, encourage
sucking and promote weight gain in newborn babies. Premature babies
gain weight more quickly when music is played for them.
Breastfeeding
For first time mothers this can be a very stressful time.
Some babies just seem to know what to do straight away, others,
for whatever reason, don’t. Anxiety can affect the milk,
how much is produced and the quality. Playing Calmtime during
breast-feeding can have a very relaxing affect for both mother
and baby. Relaxation aids successful feeding.
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