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A well-known saying goes “Music
has charms to soothe the savage
beast,” but music—and the arts
in general—has an impact on a
much broader audience than
just the savage. A new program
at Simi Valley Hospital uses the
calming influence of the arts to
provide a better experience for
patients and their loved ones.
Scientific research, as well as a
wealth of personal experiences, has
proven that some types of music have
a positive effect on heart rate, blood
pressure, breathing and other vital
functions—and, therefore, feelings of
stress or anxiety.
“Studies have shown that when
patients are in the hospital, there
are things other than drugs that can
alleviate stress, help them feel more
comfortable and even decrease the
need for pain medication,” said Ron
Hyrchuk, director of Spiritual Care
Services at Simi Valley Hospital.
MUSIC, VISUAL ART,
OF WELLNESS CARE
If you’re
interested in
lending your
financial support
to the Healing
Arts program,
please call the
Simi Valley Hospital
Foundation at
805-955-6670
.