How Music Heals Us
House Calls with Dr. Vivek Murthy (@Surgeon_General) is a podcast hosted by the 21st U.S. Surgeon General. In each episode, Dr. Murthy and his guests explore how they navigate the messiness and uncertainties of life to find meaning and joy. By sharing openly what’s on our minds and in our hearts, we can find strength and healing through connection. Guests will include experts and thought leaders in their field who have found ways to forge deeper connections, showcase a human-centered view of public health, and build community and healing.
Healing can come in many forms. For world renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, he sees his music as a way to create touch between humans. Tirelessly performing around the world, Yo-Yo shares his musical gift generously and collaborates with many musicians, knowing that music brings healing, solace and inspiration. Music is what gives his own life meaning.
In this conversation about the healing power of music, Yo-Yo Ma and the Surgeon General contemplate how music can bring meaning that sometimes words alone cannot. How does music transform our minds and our bodies? How does music connect us to ourselves, to our humanity? Speaking from their own personal experiences and stories, this deeply personal and joyous conversation sounds like two old friends catching up.
Part 2
Yo-Yo Ma and the Surgeon General continue the conversation about the power of music. Yo-Yo reflects on how music was an antidote to his father’s loneliness while trapped in Paris during WWII, and how Yo-Yo shared his music to comfort people during the pandemic.
Continuing with personal stories about connection, the conversation turns to parenting, why it seems harder for men to connect, and what Mr. Rogers taught both of them. They also talk about why connecting to yourself is so important, and how Yo-Yo does that through practicing what he calls “The Beginner’s Mind.”
If you enjoy the art of conversation, this episode will be music to your ears. It will build up what Yo-Yo Ma refers to as your “emotional bank account” and bring about a sense of hope.
