8 Simple Musical Gifts

Monday, Dec 23, 2013
Written by Christina Wensveen, BMT, MTA

Christina is an accredited music therapist working in Calgary and Lethbridge,  Alberta. With four years of experience, she currently works in schools, care facilities and with private clients. Christina’s newest adventure has involved starting her own practice Blue Sky Music Therapy. Be sure to check out her website for more information: www.blueskymusictherapy.com. We are so grateful that Christina was willing to share this holiday inspired gem with us! Why don’t you try a few of these out with your family and friends this winter season? Live a little!  – Merry Christmas!
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Each year I share the list of “8 Gifts That Don’t Cost A Cent” with the clients I work with and we discuss non-material gifts to give friends and loved ones.  This year I thought of 8 Simple Musical Gifts (that don’t have to cost a lot either!!) to do with family, friends and loved ones. All involve spending time together, which is what makes us enjoy this time of year so much!
8 Simple Musical Gifts
1) Select your loved ones favourite pieces of music and listen to them together. Discuss any feelings or emotions that arise.

2) Send your loved one a message in a song: (i.e.: I just called to say I love you, Just the way you are, You are the best thing)

3) Sing for your loved one- even if you think you have a bad voice, your loved one knows your voice and responds to it more deeply than the voice of a stranger.

4) Volunteer to sing or make music together for those who are less fortunate or go caroling around your neighbourhood.

5) Create your own holiday playlist and share memories associated with carols or songs.

6) Dance, in whatever form (from full on dancing, hand dancing or wheelchair dancing) with your loved one- movement helps us engage in the music instead of just passively listening.

7) Attend concerts, plays or other events happening in your community together.

8) Sometimes holiday music is everywhere and becomes overwhelming, so if your loved one needs quiet time, give the gift of solitude and sit quietly with them.

Written by Christina Wensveen, BMT, MTA

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