Singer and songwriter Larry Stevens performs an acoustic set for The Open to Hope show. Music, art and other creative endeavors are fantastic tools for healing, but they can be difficult to incorporate into the grieving process. Music, whether performing or listening, can help address challenging emotions, but can also quickly become overwhelming. It’s just like when you’re falling in love; hearing a certain song on the radio can trigger overwhelming emotions. Fortunately, there are specific “grief songs” and “grief music” that are designed to help with the healing process at a steady pace.
Stevens is one of many performers who specialize in grief music. For many who have lost someone they love, especially recently, using music to help dismantle their emotions is critically important. They may avoid the radio, television or other “comforts” they perhaps enjoyed with the loved one who just died. Tapping into new sounds and new types of music therapy can be a fantastic blessing.
Music to Feed the Soul
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for music therapy. Finding types of music that soothes, heals and comforts takes a little trial and error. Stevens’ music is very popular and Drs. Gloria and Heidi Horsley often feature him on The Open to Hope show. He knows what it means to lose someone you love, and is happy to share his personal creation of grief therapy with the world.
If you know someone who is grieving, offering support can come in many forms. A gift of appropriate music can become a buoy, especially in the early days of grief. However, simply being present and open to listening and providing companionship is another means of support. Keep in mind that everybody mourns differently, and know that your presence is often all that’s needed.