Sounds of Healing: A Physician Reveals the Therapeutic Power of Sound, Voice, and Music
When New York hematologist-oncologist Gaynor took (tm)dsal, a Tibetan monk, as a patient, he began learning about Tibetan medicine, especially its singing bowls. Here he describes metal and crystal bowls and their uses, how one creates a "life song," and other vital elements of healing with sound. Gaynor was already acquainted with various forms of complementary medicine and had learned how to combine some non-Western beliefs and processes with those of Western medicine. In this open-minded book he informatively recounts how he and his patients have benefited from those combinations. Drawing on Candace Pert's pioneering work in psychoneuroimmunology, Gaynor emphasizes the importance of "mind-body unity," rather than the more frequently cited conception of "mind-body connection," pointing out many ways in which "we ourselves are rhythm." He discusses entrainment, harmony, and homeostasis, and he shows how physiology can be changed by music. Case histories add personal touches and attest the uniqueness of each patient.William Beatty