Harp for stress relief: easy ways to relax and express yourself

Perhaps you’ve seen majestic pedal harps in symphonies and movies and wished you could play one, or had a harpist at your wedding. Or associate the beautiful sound of the strings with heaven and angels.

Did you say, “I’ve taken care of everyone else my whole life, now it’s MY turn to find out what I LOVE!”

Do you realize that a creative outlet is NECESSARY for your health? Your favorite hobbies, enjoying nature, or any time that you can “get out of your head” and “into your body” can make a huge difference in your mental and physical health. You can say, “I’m not a musician (or an artist or a cook),” but that’s the adult voice. As children, we simply explore our surroundings and rejoice in our discoveries. “Playing” with a harp can be like playing in a sandbox.

You can play a harp, anyone can, but few know that harps can be held in your lap, sound beautiful, and dissipate stress. Simply pushing your fingers on the strings produces the sound of a wind chime and transports your tired mind or body to a place of instant peace.

Since medieval times, storytellers and harpists played small harps similar to the lap harps we play today. During biblical times, David played the harp to calm King Saul.

Harp therapy is a growing field and offers distraction from pain, anxiety, and depression. Research has shown that blood pressure and heart rate can be lowered by listening to the soothing sounds of the harp. Harpists are now found playing in hospitals, nursing homes, and at the bedside of hospice patients, as well as in rehabilitation and working with children. Recorded harp music provides calm in office, school, and healthcare settings. Tea On Wings of a Dove – Harp music to calm the soul CD is used in massages, healthcare settings, and homes around the world.

The world of the harp is wide and wonderful. Harps come in all sizes, shapes, and even colors. As well as carefully choosing a pet, you will want to be knowledgeable about the types available to ensure that you find a harp that suits you, fits your body and your pocket, and makes your heart sing. Choosing the right harp for your body is important to avoid any physical exertion.

Warning: Because I care about your desire for a joyful and satisfying harp playing experience, avoid carved rosewood harps that are made in the Middle East. They look lovely, but many of them can’t be played because the strings don’t hold the melody. A “good deal” on a harp could mean that you just bought a decoration instead of an instrument.

When getting started on the harp, it is very important to find a harp teacher who honors you – your goals, interests, learning styles, and challenges. The harp is a wonderful first instrument, at any age. It is not necessary to have previous musical knowledge or to know how to read music.

I encourage you to follow your dreams, whatever they may be! You deserve it, and your body, mind, and spirit will thank you (so will your family and friends).