October 15, 2019 —Have you ever wished that you had the time to fulfill a lifelong desire to play a musical instrument? Well, if retirement provides the time and opportunity to play an instrument, it could prove to be a most rewarding venture. The best instrument to learn is one for which you have the most passion – that helps to ensure that you will stick with your plan. Once you get some experience under your belt, you may find that playing an instrument boosts your mood, as your brain gets flooded with pleasure-inducing dopamine (a powerful neurotransmitter) that creates a calming effect. Research shows that playing music lowers stress more than most other traditional relaxing activities, such as reading. According to a five-year study, older adults given keyboard lessons experienced a 90% increase in their human growth hormone (HGH) levels. HGH is an essential chemical that helps slow many aging conditions, such as loss of muscle mass and osteoporosis.
The Recreation program at Barclay Friends offers many opportunities to enjoy the musical arts, including performances by local high school students and the Grateful Alive Band (of retirees), the soothing sounds of the cello, and song and piano sessions with our Music Therapist. To learn more, please contact us today at (610) 696-5211 and visit our website at http://bf.kendal.org/.
With Faith Woodward, Director of Admissions and Marketing