Utah veterans are discovering a unique avenue for healing through the use of Native American flutes, a form of therapy that addresses post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other related challenges. This initiative, led by artist Arlo Johnson and fellow veteran John Baker, aims to provide support and solace to those who have served.
The journey began when Johnson, connected to his heritage in the Four Corners region of New Mexico, received a flute from his friend, the late John ‘Lakota’ Hawks, a veteran of the 73rd Airborne Brigade. Hawks had carved the flute as a gesture of gratitude during his recovery at the Veterans Affairs hospital, where he stayed in Johnson’s driveway. Through learning to play the flute, Johnson experienced a profound sense of peace, realizing the instrument’s potential as a therapeutic tool for fellow veterans.
Flute-Making Classes Foster Community and Healing
In a flute-making class at Salt Lake Community College, Johnson met Baker, a veteran who had taken the course multiple times. Baker, skilled in crafting flutes, began providing Johnson with instruments to distribute to veterans seeking therapeutic relief. The act of creating flutes has become a personal refuge for Baker, especially after the loss of his wife to lung cancer. In the wood shop, he finds a calming purpose as he transforms raw materials into beautiful instruments.
Baker describes the flute-making process as a transformative experience. “It’s about shaping a piece of wood into something that can create music, amplifying its beauty through sound,” he explains. This creative outlet not only distracts from daily stresses but also fosters a sense of engagement and well-being.
Johnson’s initiative highlights the therapeutic power of music and artistic expression. It is not merely about creating musical instruments; it provides a means for veterans to confront their emotional wounds and navigate their healing journeys. The integration of Native American cultural traditions into therapeutic practices emphasizes the growing recognition of holistic approaches to mental health, particularly within veteran communities.
A Supportive Community for Veterans
By distributing flutes and providing lessons, Johnson creates a supportive environment where veterans can connect and share experiences. This initiative reflects a broader trend toward exploring alternative therapeutic interventions, such as art therapy and mindfulness practices, as complementary strategies to traditional medical treatments for PTSD.
The impact of Johnson’s program extends beyond individual healing. It fosters a sense of community among veterans, allowing them to embark on their healing journeys together. The blending of music, culture, and personal transformation presents a compelling case for the effectiveness of alternative therapies in addressing the complex challenges faced by those who have served.
As veterans in Utah continue to engage with Native American flutes, they are not only finding personal solace but also contributing to a growing movement that seeks to redefine mental health treatment. Johnson and Baker’s efforts serve as a reminder of the profound impact that creative expression can have on recovery and well-being.
