useful, but the harp has proven to be the most beneficial to healing as it soothes and stimulates the brain to begin the healing process, emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually.

1. The vibrations from acoustic instruments regulate body rhythms, making people attending the service feel better. Heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, electrical impulses in the body and even brain waves

are regulated with appropriate harp music. These vibrations also increase oxygen in the blood so people feel physically better, because lack of oxygen causes degeneration.

2. Musical vibrations relax the family and friends of the deceased. Harp vibrations move the brain from a stressful beta state to a relaxed alpha state and even, sometimes, a deep, meditative state.

3. Vibrations from acoustic instruments access and release negative emotions that have been stored deep within. Deep emotions need to be released so they do not remain in storage as negative energy in the body contributing to other health issues at later dates.

The memorial service is a perfect place to release emotions; it is expected and accepted. In the alpha or theta state we do not make value judgments about what is "proper." The emotions accessed in this state are then more easily released and our tears flow freely. As much as we feel we don't want to cry, it's an important of healing. We often feel uncomfortable crying in the presence of others, but music allows our tears to flow on a wave of sound that makes it less obvious.

4. Acoustic music can help us access memories which are stored deeper in the brain, than those we remember in our regular state of brain wave activity. In the alpha state those in attendance are more likely to be willing to share memories. This can be a true gift to the family members.

5. Live music says, "You are so special; you deserve the very best."

6. Live acoustic music is just that: alive! It makes the service more of a celebration of life.

7. Music ministers to people. Ministry involves love and compassion and can only come from a live person.

So, in plannning a memorial service, celebration of life, or funeral, strongly consider the addition of live acoustic music, or a harp CD or DVD with with beautiful nature scenes that will calm the audience.