Veterans in Utah are embracing Native American flutes as a therapeutic tool to cope with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This innovative approach is spearheaded by artist Arlo Johnson and fellow veteran John Baker, who are dedicated to providing these instruments to veterans seeking healing and peace.
SALT LAKE CITY — The use of Native American flutes is gaining recognition as a beneficial method for veterans dealing with the emotional scars of military service. The journey began for Johnson when he received a flute from his late friend, John ‘Lakota’ Hawks. Hawks, a veteran of the 73rd Airborne Brigade, carved the flute and taught Johnson how to play it while he was staying in Johnson’s driveway during treatment at the Veterans Affairs hospital.
Johnson found that playing the flute brought him a profound sense of tranquility, prompting him to envision its potential as a healing tool for other veterans. He noted that the act of playing mirrors meditation principles by requiring deep breaths and a slow, deliberate release. This meditative practice can foster relaxation and emotional release, crucial for those struggling with trauma.
During a flute-making workshop at Salt Lake Community College, Johnson met Baker, who had participated in the class multiple times. Baker, a skilled flute maker, began supplying Johnson with flutes to distribute among veterans. The process of crafting flutes has become a therapeutic outlet for Baker, especially following the death of his wife of 57 years from lung cancer.
Baker shared that working with wood in the shop not only provided a creative escape but also helped him navigate his grief. He described the transformation of raw wood into a musical instrument as a deeply fulfilling experience. The act amplifies the wood’s inherent beauty, creating a connection to both the material and the music produced.
Johnson’s initiative highlights the healing powers of music and artistic expression. It transcends simple craftsmanship; it encourages veterans to confront their emotional wounds in a supportive environment. The integration of Native American traditions into these therapeutic practices underscores a broader recognition of holistic approaches to mental health, particularly for veterans.
The program fosters community among participants, allowing veterans to share experiences and support one another on their healing journeys. This initiative aligns with a growing trend towards alternative therapeutic interventions, such as art and music therapy, which complement traditional treatments for PTSD.
As Johnson continues to distribute flutes and provide lessons, the impact of this initiative on the lives of Utah veterans becomes increasingly evident. Through the power of music, veterans are finding new pathways to peace and well-being, demonstrating the profound potential of creative expression in the healing process.
