SOUND AND COGNITION

SOUND AND COGNITION CHERRY CHAPMAN, MSWA COUNSELLOR The ingredients of sound and cognition may appear to be a foreign concept for many, however, it is one that I continue to explore and navigate whilst studying for a Diploma in Sound Healing. Psychiatrist Bessel Van Der Kolk and Psychotherapist Babette Rothschild both write in detail about how the body stores adverse life events. Living with a chronic illness can have an impact on the architecture within the brain, interfering with the development and formation of neural pathways. Recently, I was delighted to be invited to share my knowledge on sound and cognition at the MSWA Stay in Focus Groups in Padbury and Beechboro. Maintaining a healthy balanced lifestyle is essential for individuals living with a chronic illness. Studies have shown that additional stress and fatigue on the body can lead to relapses, with some individuals experiencing cognitive processing issues as a result. Finding strategies and tools that reduce stress and fatigue is important in maintaining physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing. I have found that introducing sound into my sessions at MSWA has provided a greater sense of calm for some individuals. I understand that this style doesn’t suit everyone – it requires an openness and awareness on a holistic level. Creating a peaceful and tranquil ambience at Beechboro did come with a few challenges, however. Combining a guided body scan and creating a harmonious ensemble from the Tibetan and crystal bowls, Koshie chimes, ocean drum and rain stick, created a whole-felt body experience appreciated by the groups who participated. I emphasised a deep sense of listening through the whole body, beginning from the crown of your head down to your toes. The vibrations from sound instruments balance cellular energy, bringing greater harmony between the right and left hemisphere of the brain, which reduces stress and encourages a deeper sense of relaxation. Some of the comments from the group included; “Restorative and revitalising”, “Relaxing”, “Valuable” and “Energising”. Resources • The Body Remembers: The Psychophysiology of Trauma and Trauma Treatment - Babette Rothschild. • The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the healing of trauma – Bessel Van Der Kolk. • https://bengreenfieldfitness.com/podcast/brain-podcasts/ how-you-can-use-sound-and-music-to-change-yourbrain-waves-with-laser-accuracy-and-achieve-hugefocus-and-performance-gains/ • https://www.mstrust.org.uk/a-z/cognition-and-cognitivesymptoms • https://www.mstrust.org.uk/a-z/stayingsmart • Evelyn Glennie: How to truly listen | TED Talk | TED.com 14 | MSWA BULLETIN AUTUMN 2018

BALANCE THERAPY TRIAL ENHANCING BALANCE AND GAIT IN PATIENTS WITH MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS – COMBINED USE OF BALANCE TRAINING WITH NON-INVASIVE BRAIN STIMULATION: A CLINICAL TRIAL. Participation in this MSWA funded study now includes the option to receive balance therapy, as part of the treatment phase of the trial, at MSWA Wilson. Pre and post treatment assessments will be required at the Perron Institute Clinic, Nedlands. To participate in this study, you need to: - Be over 18 years of age - Have definite relapsing-remitting or a progressive form of MS - Have mild to moderate balance impairment (including falls), though able to walk - Walk 20+ meters with a walking aid This study aims to evaluate whether combining non-invasive brain stimulation (transcranial direct current stimulation – tDCS) with balance therapy will improve mobility and independence among MS patients with balance and/or walking impairment. If you are interested in participating in this study, you will attend twice a week sessions of balance therapy for 6 weeks (12 sessions, each about 90mins). Half of our group of participants will receive the brain stimulation (tDCS) and half will receive sham brain stimulation prior to balance therapy. To date there have been no adverse effects associated with tDCS. If you would like to participate in this research or have any questions about the study you may contact: Jesse Dixon or Jenny Eisenhauer at the Perron clinic on 6457 0207 or at jesse.dixon@health.wa.gov.au or jenny.eisenhauer@perron.uwa.edu.au Fold, Pack, Travel. Whether you’re cruising, flying or driving. This portable scooter folds up in just 20 seconds. 1300 622 633 www.scootersAus.com.au SCA33002 MSWA BULLETIN AUTUMN 2018 | 15