The Michele Roys Show

How Music Heals: Nervous System Regulation & Therapy with Louise Kelly

The Michele Roys Show

Show Notes

What if music isn’t just something we enjoy… but something our nervous system needs? In this deeply grounding and illuminating episode of The Michele Roys Show, I’m joined by Louise Kelly, Consultant Music Therapist and TEDx Tralee speaker, to explore the powerful role of music as a therapeutic tool for healing, regulation, and connection. Louise’s TEDx talk, “Who Turned the Music Down?” sparked an important conversation about how rhythm, sound, and shared music-making are not luxuries—but essential regulators of our nervous system. In this episode, we go deeper. Together, we unpack how music therapy supports emotional regulation, reduces stress, and creates connection when words are not enough—especially for those living with chronic illness, trauma, anxiety, neurodiversity, or overwhelm. ✨ In this episode, you’ll discover: Why music is biologically wired into our nervous system

How music therapy differs from simply listening to music

The science behind rhythm, co-regulation, and emotional safety

Why music often reaches people when talk therapy cannot

How music supports healing for chronic pain and invisible illness

A gentle, guided music-based practice you can try in real time

How music therapy is used in healthcare, schools, workplaces, and communities

Connect with Louise:Louise shares her professional insights as well as deeply human stories from her work, making this conversation both evidence-based and heart-led. This episode is an invitation to slow down, listen, and reconnect—with your body, your emotions, and your innate rhythm. If you’ve ever felt like life turned the volume down on joy, connection, or creativity—this conversation is for you. 🎧 Listen now and rediscover how music can help you feel safe, seen, and supported again.

IG: https://www.instagram.com/louisekelly25 Learn more about music therapy & Louise’s work here: https://resilientrhythms.co.uk Watch Louise Kelly – TEDx Tralee here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTKezQB0A3E

💬Has music ever helped you through a difficult season in your life—when words couldn’t? 🤍 If this episode brought you calm, clarity, or a sense of being understood, I’d be so grateful if you shared it with someone who might be walking a similar path. Thank you for helping this message reach hearts that need it.

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