What specific populations benefited from combined music and mindfulness interventions?

Music and mindfulness interventions, when combined, have shown promising results across a diverse range of populations facing various challenges. Here are some specific examples:

Patients with Physical Health Conditions:

• Post-Stroke Patients: Studies have explored the feasibility and acceptability of mindful music listening interventions for post-stroke patients experiencing low mood, depression, and anxiety. Results showed improvements in mood and cognition in those who engaged in mindful music listening compared to those who just listened to music or audiobooks.

• Women with Breast Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy: A pilot study investigated the effects of a mindfulness-based music therapy program on attention and mood in women undergoing chemotherapy. The program significantly improved both attention and mood states, particularly reducing fatigue.

• Adolescents with Osteosarcoma: A study employing mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) alongside music therapy examined the impact on pain, anxiety, and sleep quality. Although not explicitly combining the therapies, participants listened to music facilitated by a music therapist before and after MBSR exercises, indicating potential benefits of integrating these modalities.

Individuals with Mental Health Concerns:

• Women in Addiction Treatment: A study focusing on women recovering from addiction found that integrating music therapy and mindfulness helped them explore emotions, manage stress and anxiety, and improve their mood. This approach encouraged a closer relationship with recovery slogans and the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.

• Adults with Subjective Cognitive Decline: Research has shown that both meditation and music listening positively impact memory and cognitive performance in adults experiencing subjective cognitive decline, a potential precursor to Alzheimer's disease.

• Individuals with Depression: Mindful music listening has been investigated as a potential treatment for depression. Studies suggest it can enhance emotion regulation, self-awareness, and the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist.

General Population:

• University Students: Research exploring the effects of temporary mindfulness meditation training on musical aesthetic emotion processing (MAEP) in university students revealed that mindfulness decreased negative emotional experiences associated with happy and sad music while also enhancing the experience of beauty in music.

Musicians:

• University Voice Majors: A study involving voice majors participating in a Mindfulness for Singers program demonstrated positive impacts on performance preparation, skill development, and practice. The program included mindfulness techniques tailored for singers, leading to increased awareness, reduced self-judgment, and improved focus during performance.

These examples illustrate the wide-ranging potential of combining music and mindfulness interventions to support individuals across diverse populations. The sources suggest that this integrative approach holds promise for enhancing mental and emotional well-being, improving cognitive function, and fostering personal growth.