Most of us have heard that playing the harp is good for the lungs---and bad for stray dogs when I’m honking.
There’s been lots of media coverage about harmonicas and lung rehabilitation and good science to support the activity.
In fact, playing is like weight-lifting for your lungs for patients with COPD, cystic fibrosis, and asthma and other breathing disorders.
After many years in a regular college classroom I recently took my crude honking on the road to teach lung patients how to play the harp and hopefully improve lung function, stress management and increase relaxation. There were lots of smiles and blues lovers with great stories.
With more than 500 million people worldwide suffering from COPD I’m humbling suggesting that some of you consider volunteering at your local medical center. Actually, some of us could quickly teach the therapists who then can run regular sessions for suffers---and encourage practice (read: regular rehab exercises) and monitor patients.
I’ve learned that inhalation rehab therapists have all heard about harp playing, but most aren’t players and have been reluctant to start a program. All they need is a little nudge and a little training and resources like where to buy cheap harps. BTW, my local music store offered me a great discount on cheapie harps for my first class---now the hospital buys the instruments. Ops, better not start talking about health costs and insurance. Doh...
People with COPD mostly find it hard to get air out of their lungs and for many years patients have been taught to use pursed-lip breathing (and diaphragmatic breathing) exercises---which is just like pursed-lipped playing and breath control.
It’s fun. Patients get laughing over their mistakes and the group bonds in a wonderful and warm manner. Lung function and morale improve quickly---and I got a buzz in my shorts for helping. Just a thought, but it’s a great feeling to give back and share harmonica playing, especially when it helps people breath easier.
That's cool. I shared this with Adam nearly a yr ago. My mother was diagnosed with Alzheimers. She moved in and lived with us until recently. Now she is with my sister. Anyway, I bought her a harmonica of which she keeps in her purse. We had a blast "playing" together. I always thought it would help her with her asthma.
If you have a loved one with Alzheimer's try this out.
@harpcrab - thanks but I have to give credit where credit is due. That would be to my wife, Lori. In our 27 yrs of marriage, Lori & Mom have had a very close relationship. So much so that if we were to break up, I'd be cut loose from the family. :-)
Lori quit her job and became Mom's 24/7 caregiver.
@Bill - Lori took Mom to a couple of Senior Centers with special days set aside for caregiver respite. She would on occasion hang out with Mom and participate in the activities. I would love to do as you've done and start a harmonica jam activity for the folks. Our Seniors can definitely benefit from what many on this forum have to offer.
