Jim Donovan Show (Jim Donovan)

Every year, millions of people in Japan flock to the forest for a “bath.”

But there's no water or special bathtubs.

They're seeking to disconnect from the sounds of their busy life to experience something completely unique that only nature can provide—and research shows it has remarkable health benefits...particularly for sleep, mood, and cognition.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com.

According to a study by Microsoft, the average person's attention span is eight seconds long. That’s a sharp decrease from the 12 second average in 2000.

But I can’t say I’m surprised. There's so much that's vying for our attention...

And when your attention span suffers, so does your brain. In fact, it becomes MORE vulnerable to decline and disease.

Fortunately, there’s an easy way to enhance learning & help your brain thrive.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at ww.donovanhealth.com

In this episode of Sound Health, Jim sits down yet again with friend & colleague, the brilliant Dr. Russell Miller—a family medicine doctor of nearly 25 years.

Today, we're covering the COVID-19 pandemic.

In his typical fashion, Dr. Miller tells it like it is.

He sets the facts straight when it comes to:
- The severity of COVID
- Social distancing
- Masks
- When to go to the ER
- Ways you can strengthen your immune system
- A world post-COVID

Stay informed. Stay healthy.

In early 2005, I made a major life decision to leave the band that had helped me live out my “rock star” dreams.

As wonderful as all of that was, I was constantly thinking about what I had waiting for me back home...

The problem was, once I was finally at home for good, I became deeply depressed.

Here's how drumming helped dig me out of my hole, and how it can help you, too—even if you've never played an instrument a day in your life.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

There’s a saying that goes like this...

Expectation is the cause of all disappointment.

It isn’t until we shed that expectation, and free ourselves from self-conscious thinking, that we truly feel free. And nowhere does this ring more true than in the creative minds of artists and musicians—like my dear friend Bill Deasy.

Bill is an incredible songwriter, and author. He has recorded and toured nationally both as a solo artist and with his band The Gathering Field. 

He has also written for Martina McBride, Billy Ray Cyrus, and his song “Good Things Are Happening” was a long-running theme for Good Morning America.

In 2006, Bill added published author to his list of accomplishments with the release of his novel Ransom Seaborn, which is currently being adapted for film.

Join us as we talk about overcoming your inner bully by learning to be forgiving, kind, and compassionate with yourself—and how that can help you tap into your creative flow.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Turns out you can build a better brain by incorporating any regular rhythmic activity into your daily life. You don't even need any drums! I'll show you how today.

Fact is...our brains LOVE patterns.

Activities like drumming help create new neural pathways that can positively affect your cognition and overall brain health.

Listen to discover your new favorite brain workout...

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

In this moving interview, Jim talks with Pete Griffin, the CEO of Musicians On Call—a non-profit that brings musicians into hospitals to help patients heal physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Pete shares some remarkable stories of healing. He describes how music therapy provided by Musicians On Call has helped over 830,000 patients, families, and caregivers since it's inception in 1999. Plus, its impact on local and big-name musicians alike.

Jim and Pete discuss why this form of therapy should be in every hospital worldwide.

Start your FREE journey with Jim at www.donovanhealth.com

In this episode of Sound Health, you'll get an insider’s look into the mind of a brilliant doctor.

Jim sits down with his colleague, and good friend, Dr. Russell Miller—a practicing family physician of nearly 23 years.

Today, Dr. Miller reveals the biggest health mistakes people are making, safer ways you can manage chronic pain, and his top five recommendations for staying healthy and independent as you age.

Dr. Miller also discusses why he considers the vagus nerve to be the body’s major “healing highway,” as well as practical ways to strengthen vagal tone to build resilience against stress and illness.

Jim and Dr. Miller also talk about how to be your own best advocate when it comes to your healthcare, why you need to stop Googling your symptoms, and how to get the most out of your doctor appointments.

Press play to start your sound health journey!

Today’s guest is one of the most gifted and sought after musicians in rock — Mr. Rudy Sarzo

Since the late 70’s, Rudy has been touring and making records with legendary artists including Ozzy Osborne, Quiet Riot, Whitesnake, Dio, Queensÿche and the Guess Who.

He’s the author of the book Off the Rails 

The host of Six Degrees of Sarzo on The Monsters of Rock Radio station and The Dash Podcast.

Twitter: @rudysarzo @SarzoSix 

https://www.instagram.com/sarzo.rudy/

Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/show/rudy-sarzo-the-dash-podcast

https://www.facebook.com/officialrudysarzo

Visit Jim Donovan at https://DonovanHealth.com

Throughout the years, Rusted Root toured with various iterations of the Grateful Dead band.

I’ll never forget the sight of thousands of “Deadheads” bouncing in unison to the beat of my drums.

No matter where we were, all the fans seemed to connect with each other in a very deep way.

As it turns out, there’s a scientific explanation for this crowd bonding phenomenon. In fact, it involves some very powerful processes in the body…

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Yogis in India have known of its benefits for 6,000 years, and now, research is finally validating it here in the West: Your “breathing rhythm” has a huge impact on your well-being.

When I talk about “breathing rhythm,” I’m referring to how fast or slow you breathe.

And according to the latest science, learning how to control it may be the key to taking control of your health—both physically and mentally.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

If you fail to regularly nourish your brain, your neurons (brain cells) will either malfunction or die. As a result, the parts of the brain that rely on these neurons to help control and store memories will begin to lose their function—putting your most cherished moments at risk.

But don’t fret...

You were born with the extraordinary ability to grow brand new brain cells. Today I’ll tell you about three simple, pill-free techniques you can use—starting today—to boost this process.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

I recently came across a fascinating story that—yet again—illustrates how music is helping scientists unravel the mystery behind Alzheimer’s disease.

Australian researchers recently witnessed miraculous cognitive results in a 91 year-old woman with dementia after simply turning on the radio. .

Fortunately, no matter your age, there are science-backed ways you can start protecting your brain today—all without pills or expensive therapies.

Today, I'm sharing a few of my favorite brain-building techniques you can use to prevent or slow cognitive decline.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

How can you use music to manage your chronic pain? There are an estimated 30 million people in the U.S. suffering from chronic pain, and if you’re one of them, please know that there’s lasting, effective relief without having to swallow another dangerous, addictive pain pill.

Learn about Jim's 3 easy tips for alleviating chronic pain—starting today!

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Vivek Tiwary is a true Renaissance man. This award-winning Broadway producer has been behind record breaking shows such as The Addam’s Family, Mel Brook’s Young Frankenstein, and most recently, Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill.

Vivek is also a No. 1 NYT Best Selling Author penning the graphic novel, The Fifth Beatle, based on the life of early Beatles manager Brian Epstein. He’s also co-founder of Musicians On Call, a nationwide charity providing the healing power of music in hospitals and healing centers.

Learn how Vivek brings his big ideas to life. And how you can, too.

Visit Musicians On Call to see their caring work for those in need.

At the tender age of 2, Karl Perazzo found his purpose: The drums. And since then, he's become unstoppable…

The self-taught musician has gone on to play with the best in pop, jazz, rock and Latin music—with the likes of Prince, Tito Puente, Mariah Carey, Phish, and Parliament/Funkadelic's Dennis Chambers... just to name a few.

Since 1991, he's been playing with legendary guitarist, Carlos Santana, and his band. 

Karl talks to Jim about the deeper meaning he's found in music, the time he was taught about what it really means to perform, how his instrument reflects his inner-self, and why it's so important to play like it's the first time... every time.

Karl also shares the story of his humble beginnings, what he learned from playing alongside some of the world's most influential music legends, and what still makes him star-struck to this day.

Jim and Karl also recount the times they toured together—when a young, terrified Jim learned some very hard, very embarrassing life-changing lessons.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

I recently accompanied my 75-year-old dad, Ralph, to a few of his cancer treatment sessions.

He just finished a seven-week, 35-session combination of chemotherapy and radiation to treat throat cancer. His doctors tell us that it’s curable. We are hopeful.

So far, he’s doing okay, but we can clearly see the toll the treatments are taking on his energy and mood.

Then I got to thinking… What if I could use music to help him feel better?

To my family's delight, it worked...

Approximately 1 in 8 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with breast cancer.

In most cases, women with early-stage breast cancer choose surgery along with radiation, chemo, or hormone therapy.

This is a very personal choice for each patient that comes with many physical & emotional hurdles.

Today I'll show you an all natural 5-minute technique you can use to quell the anxiety of receiving cancer treatments.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Stress is a literal pain in the neck.

But vagal nerve stimulation is your built in "stress melting switch" that's ready to be flipped on to battle anxiety.

When you make any type of vagal toning exercise part of your day, it can result in major improvements to your life if you stick with it.

You'll literally "hum your way to healing and happiness."

Today I share my favorite go-to method for stimulating your vagus nerve with sound anytime no matter where you may be.

Start your sound healing journey at www.donovanhealth.com

Every 66 seconds, someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s.

And while modern medicine is researching new treatments, there’s no “cure” in sight.

But did you know you can use sound to stimulate the neuroprotective guardians within your own body?

Discover how you can stimulate these benefits in just 5 minutes a day. And here’s a bonus—these easy-to-do tips can also help you relax!

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Researchers have found that playing certain types of music can help improve the level of brain development in premature babies. (They also determined which instruments babies responded to the best!)

I wish I had known this years ago when my own daughter was born six weeks early.

If your little one arrives ahead of schedule, discover how you can harness the power of music to help them develop and grow.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Can you remember what song played during your first slow dance? What did you sing at the top of your lungs with your best friends? Can you recall your first concert?

A team of researchers from the University of Otago in New Zealand recently demonstrated how actively reliving past memories—particularly those involving nostalgic music and movement—helps dementia patients improve their quality of life, memory, mood, and social interactions.

Here's my top four ways to nourish your brain right now with music and movement so you can get the long term benefits of getting your groove back!

Start your healing journey for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

According to the latest science, indulging in a regular "Happy Hour" may not be making us so happy after all.

Research shows that just one drink in the evening can have detrimental effects to our sleep.

Although alcohol may help you feel drowsy, it can get in the way of our body's ability to rest.

Today I’ll share my three go-to relaxation techniques so you can wind down without the “help” of that potentially dangerous cocktail.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

One in three American adults have high blood pressure (BP)—a top risk factor for heart disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death in the U.S.

Today, I'll share with you a little-known antidote that’s showing promise in reducing high BP—all without the high drug costs and harsh side effects of prescription medications.

All you need are five minutes a day and one ancient Indian technique to drastically improve your health markers and the way you feel.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com.

What does sound have to do with your health? How can you use simple sound and rhythm techniques right now to keep you in your best mental, physical, and emotional shape?

Jim reveals the moment in his life where anxiety and the rock and roll lifestyle put him in the hospital, how he used sound and rhythm to turn his health around, and why he’s now sharing it with thousands all over the world.

Jim Donovan, M.Ed. is a musician, teacher, and wellness facilitator. He’s taught thousands of people his exclusive sound healing methods and wellness-based drumming techniques at conferences, retreats, and online events.

As a founding member of the 90’s band Rusted Root, Jim toured the world and sold over 3 million records co-writing and performing their hit song, “Send Me on My Way.”

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Today I talk with the always interesting Dr. David "Doc" Eifrig, chief editor of Retirement Millionaire.

Doc has a remarkable and unconventional resume. He spent a decade on Wall Street as a trader with Goldman Sachs, became a medical doctor mid-career, and eventually launched his own suite of finance and health publications. 

Doc and I break down what COVID-19 means for our mental health, his grand meditation experiment in front of 350 people, and what you should be doing with your retirement money right now. 

We also talk about Doc's new California winemaking venture, Eifrig Cellars, and the two things you can do when you wake up tomorrow to help your immune system. 

What's it like to experience your first group drumming experience, or "drum circle"? 

Today I talk with award winning rhythm ambassador, author, and music facilitator Arthur Hull. Arthur travels the world inspiring community building and self development through drumming. His Village Music Circles program now has 35 certified facilitators working in 22 countries.

We discuss why rhythm is able to connect so many people and what's exactly happening in a group drumming experience. Why's it so easy for anyone to get the health benefits?

Arthur explains what led him on his mission to connect people through music and he reveals the one thing that happens at drum circles that can be a breakthrough transformative experience. 

Early on in my parenting experience I made a “pact” with myself… I let my kids listen to “their” music in the car—no matter what it was.

Little did I realize, this pact would help me learn so much more about them. These moments have become some of my most cherished as a dad.

As it turns out, sharing these musical experiences offers benefits far beyond what I'd ever imagine.

If you have children in your life, give this a listen!

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Decades of research shows reducing stress and anxiety on our body is one of  the best ways to keep your immune system strong.

Today I'm going to show you how to use sound and rhythm to cope with stress. I'll outline my personal "Daily Defense Plan" for immune support in four simple parts.

Each step is designed to fortify your body's ability to heal.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

When you think about the symptoms of anxiety, excessive worry, inability to relax, and panic might seem like the most tell-tale signs. But that’s not always the case. In fact, common annoyances like headaches or insomnia may actually be indicators of anxiety.

Many of us don’t want to depend on expensive medications to help mediate the symptoms of anxiety. Thankfully, you don’t have to. In fact, research is showing us that music can actually relieve some of anxiety’s most worrisome symptoms.

Discover the science-backed way you can use music to de-stress, as well as Jim’s top 3 tips for achieving a calm, collected state-of-mind.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Could a simple 2 minute trick improve the accuracy of your decisions?

According to a study published in the International Journal of Psychophysiology, YES!

It all has to do with the way you breathe—particularly the practice of deep breathing.

Learn more about how you can harness the power of your breath, as well as the 4 simple steps you can take to breathe your way to better decision-making.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Recently, I started doing something that, more often than not, completely turns my day around.

I’m talking about the rejuvenating powers of napping.

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve felt worse after taking a nap. Usually I’d end up feeling groggy and even more tired than before.

You'll learn my two biggest napping mistakes, and my new secret weapon for superior power naps that recharge your battery in 10 minutes.

Start your sound healing journey at www.donovanhealth.com

Between work, your family, and the other priorities in your life, some days you might feel like your “tank is on empty,” with no energy left to take care of yourself.

But when you make a habit of running on fumes, you can create some real problems for yourself—like weakening your immune system, slowing your body’s healing processes, or even triggering premature aging.

Today I'll tell you about how you can break the low-energy cycle, restore your vitality, and help rejuvenate both your body and mind.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

The next time you’re walking in nature, pay close attention to the sounds around you… running water, rustling leaves, chirping birds…

Compare that to the often jarring and unnerving sounds of the urban landscape.

How do these sounds make you feel?

If you think nature sounds are more soothing and relaxing, there’s a scientific reason behind that.

Hear what researchers have discovered about what kinds of sounds can reduce stress and anxiety, as well as my three simple steps to create the calming sounds of nature in your own home.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Today on the Jim Donovan Show:

The amazing Jillian Michaels sits down with Jim Donovan for motivating and revealing interview where she announces their exciting new collaboration together.

Instagram

More episodes: https://www.donovanhealth.com/

Researchers have just made a significant stride in the race for an Alzheimer’s cure.

And not a moment too soon…

A recent breakthrough study found that triggering the release of a natural hormone can reverse some of the damage caused by Alzheimer’s.

Today you’ll learn how you or a loved one can produce an endless supply of this hormone on your own—using the power of sound!

Start your FREE journey with Jim at www.donovanhealth.com

You can hum your way to healthier sinuses… You heard that right!

Scientists have actually shown that when you hum, it increases your body’s levels of nitric oxide (NO), which relaxes your arteries so that your blood, nutrients, and oxygen are able to travel throughout your body more effectively.

And NO can even help maintain healthy sinuses!

Learn how you can breathe easier with my six-step sinus-clearing strategy.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Jim talks with friend, comedian, and professional musician Randy Baumann. Randy is also the host of Pittsburgh's biggest radio show, The DVE Morning Show.

Randy shares the music that's given him the most comfort through COVID-19. He also reveals how getting kicked out of a country club helped him get his start in radio, dissects what makes good comedy, and how creativity improves his well-being.

Randy and Jim reminisce about their experiencing performing in Pittsburgh's music scene.

Could sound really help clear “Alzheimer’s plaque?”

Scientists have been studying this since the 1980’s, after finding that cognitive activities like reasoning, thinking, perceiving, decision-making, and listening produce a brainwave with a certain frequency.

Learn about this special sound frequency, and how it can improve your cognitive function by activating your brain’s “cleaning crew.”

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Can sound actually sharpen your math skills and critical thinking? You bet it can!

Even the the sound of a thunderstorm?

Now, I realize that this idea might seem far-fetched at first… but after reading the study featured in this episode, it makes a lot of sense. 

Put these "sound hacks" to use for times when you need a concentration boost—whether you’re doing a project for work, learning a new skill, or heck, even trying to help your kids or grandkids with their math homework (yikes!).

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com.

New York-based recording artist, writer, and lecturing professor Mike Errico has built his name on the strength of critically acclaimed releases and extensive composition for film and TV. He teaches songwriting at universities including Yale, Wesleyan, and NYU’s Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music.

Mike and Jim both played at Woodstock in 1999 and toured together back in Jim's Rusted Root days. We recently connected to talk about the challenge of being creative and inspired during isolation, how his 80 year-old father keeps his brain clear as a bell playing classical piano, and the one thing all prolific artists do to refine their creative process.

Start your Journey with Jim for free at www.donovanhealth.com

Have you ever wondered how nature, ceremony, and sound are used in the Native American healing tradition?

Shianne Eagleheart is a Licensed Independent Counselor and Clinical Supervisor. She's also a Native American Ceremonial Leader and the Executive Director and Founder of The Red Bird Center, Inc.

Shianne has extensive clinical experience in the treatment of adult and adolescent trauma survivors.

Find out what Shianne recommends in order to ground yourself, ease the effects of trauma, and feel more connected to everything around you.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

We've used rhythm for centuries to withstand long days of grueling work, remain steadfast in times of war, celebrate, foster connection, and serve as a sacred part in traditional ceremonies.

Scientists have recently discovered another major use for rhythm: Strengthening and protecting the health of your brain.

Today I’m going to show you exactly how you can use rhythm to build a better, brighter brain—using nothing but your hands.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Over the past few years, I’ve seen all kinds of conflicting reports on productivity and music…

One day, studies suggest that music boosts your productivity… and the next day, music supposedly hinders it.

I want to shed some light on this controversial topic.

The kind of music you listen to matters.

And today you'll learn how to use it as a tool that can set you up for success.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

A majority of people have been affected by breast cancer in some shape or form—whether you, or someone you know have been diagnosed with the disease.

As if that weren’t overwhelming enough on its own, you then have to navigate your way through a multitude of treatment options—including conventional medicine’s aggressive techniques like mastectomy, radiation, and chemo.

Of course, these interventions can really take a toll on your body. So today, I’d like to share some research on how music is helping to relieve symptoms in patients being treated for breast cancer.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com.

In this episode, Jim speaks with Dr. Sandra Kaufmann. Dr. Kaufmann received her medical degree from Johns Hopkins University and is the Chief of Pediatric Anesthesia at the Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital in Hollywood, Florida. 

She is also the creator and bestselling author of The Kaufmann Protocol: Why We Age and How to Stop It. During this fascinating conversation, Dr. Kaufmann reveals the Seven Tenets of Aging, the biggest myths about anti-aging and longevity, scientific ways to decelerate aging, and how to use science-based "agents of longevity" 

You can learn more about The Kaufmann Protocol at www.KaufmannProtocol.com. And for more tips on healthy aging, be sure to follow Dr. Kaufmann on Instagram (@kaufmannantiaging).

Strengthening the reward centers of your brain could be as simple as singing along to the radio on your morning commute.

Jim welcomes Dr. Jennifer Willford, professor of psychology at Slippery Rock University and expert in the fields of neuroscience and neuropsychology. Dr. Willford tells you about the various ways in which music can actually strengthen neural pathways in our brains, even in people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Plus, Jim asks Dr. Willford to reveal the 3 simple ingredients you can use right now to improve and optimize your brain health.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Do you ever wake up in a bad mood?

Thankfully, there’s a mood-boosting morning routine you can use anytime and in any situation—without caffeine or medication.

Learn my simple four-step mantra meditation that can help you wake up on the sunny side of life every day.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

The sounds around you can instantly shift the way you feel.

I decided to take a look at how "too much" sound, or noise pollution, can be hazardous to your health.

Today you'll learn some DIY ways to reduce your exposure and safeguard your health.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Can kindness make a difference to your health? 

A group of researchers at UCLA and University of Plymouth in the UK found that when we see a person help someone else, it makes us feel good. And as a result, we tend to go out and commit our own act of kindness.

But what's going on inside our bodies when we perform an act of kindness?

Today I'll tell you exactly what's happening and give you ten easy ways to spread kindness so that together we can create a "kindness pandemic."

Start your sound healing journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Did you ever want to try something new—like learning how to play a musical instrument—and thought to yourself, "I'm too old"?

According to this week's guest, that's nonsense. Anytime you pick up a new pursuit, you're working your brain's "creative muscle" and contributing to your wellness. 

Painter Chuck Olson has exhibited widely with over 300 solo and group exhibitions in the United States, Europe, and Asia. 

His work is included in the collections of the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh and the Osaka Museum of Modern Art in Japan.

Chuck sits down with Jim to discuss how creativity creates the opportunity to keep your mind young and active.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Did you know that when you experience happiness, it’s a purely chemical experience? You’ve probably heard of “feel-good” chemicals—the chemicals naturally generated by your brain, and the main ingredients in your recipe for happiness.

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could have these happiness chemicals at-the-ready whenever you wanted?

Well, you’re in luck… Because you can!

Discover Jim’s no-fuss technique for turning on your happiness switch!

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com 

Did you know you can use music to control how you feel?

The idea is based on a key concept in music therapy called the “iso-principle.” It’s a technique used to match music with your mood...and has been shown to have an effect on physiological responses such as your heart rate and blood pressure.

Learn how you can use the iso-principle to create your own therapeutic playlist.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

We all feel lonely from time to time.

But for some people, there’s nothing “occasional” about it. In the U.S., over a third of Americans over 45 report feeling lonely on a regular basis.

In fact, it's considered to be a public health epidemic in the UK, where doctors are prescribing music to help curb the disastrous effects of loneliness.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

www.donovanhealth.com

Lung health is on everyone’s mind these days, rightfully so.

And ever since the COVID-19 pandemic began, I’ve been on the lookout for things you can do at home to both protect and strengthen your lungs.

And now, Johns Hopkins—one of the most trusted medical authorities in the nation—just recommended sound and humming as a safe, simple, drug-free treatment approach to help COVID-19 survivors.

I'll show you my "go to" humming technique and two more ways to strengthen your defenses in the age of COVID-19.

Start your FREE journey with Jim at www.donovanhealth.com

It happened in front of my idol and thousands of people… but if there’s one thing it taught me it’s this: Your ability to succeed in anything is only as strong as your ability to accept failing, until one day… you don’t.

I call it “falling upward.”

Listen to the story of my most epic failure, as well as what you can do to soften the blow of fumbling.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

I can’t even begin to imagine the suffering that people experience after a natural disaster.

It can make you feel helpless sometimes, especially watching the aftermath on the news. However, the comforting fact is that whenever tragedy strikes, helping hands will always come.

After the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami a team of researchers wanted to offer aide on a large scale.

They found that specific breathing techniques helped decrease symptoms of PTSD and depression, and improved quality of life for many of the tsunami survivors.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Did you know that you can lower your blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and feel more centered just by taking a bath?

But not just any bath. In fact, you won’t need soap, water, or even a tub…

That’s because I’m talking about a “sound bath”—the 6,000 year-old ancient Asian practice of deeply immersing yourself in sound using a variety of gongs, cymbals, bowls, bells, and chimes.

Learn how a sound bath can "wash" your stress away.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Award winning filmmaker John Pritchard produces educational films that celebrate the positive side of humanity.

Today he and Jim discuss John's new documentary on the world wide drum circle movement including:

• John's 5 year mission of helping to create 1 million drum circles around the globe
• How he made this movie in the midst of a pandemic
• Why drumming might be part of the solution that brings people back together again

Watch an advance screening of 'We All Just Need to Drum" here for free: http://weneedtodrum.com/

Press Kit link to your Podcast page of our interview: https://weneedtodrum.com/PressKit.pdf

Start your journey with Jim: https://www.donovanhealth.com/

Depression affects over 300 million people worldwide. And chances are, you’ve been affected by it in some way, shape, or form.

But whether you, or a loved one, have struggled—or is struggling—with the heaviness of depression, the good news is that there are helpful, pill-free solutions available…and you can access them right at this very moment.

Discover the Jim’s three best all-natural happiness hacks you can start using today.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Doctors have been successfully treating patients using the power of sound and vibration for decades. 

Sound and vibration enter the body naturally, and in many cases, can heal parts of the body without medications or risky surgeries.

But even if you aren’t currently suffering from an injury or health ailment, you can still reap the benefits of a regular sound and vibration practice—especially if you want to enrich your health.

Here's a few of my go-to techniques to help "tune up" your body with sound.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Today Jim talks with author, nutrition expert, and practicing physician Dr. Fred Pescatore.

Dr. Fred reveals the three simple daily steps for peak immune health, how to turn on your “fat burner genes” to melt away those extra pounds, and why cholesterol is actually one of your body’s best friends.

Dr. Fred also reveals the top three foods for heart health, the one alarming reason more Americans seem to be dying from COVID-19, and the everyday household items that are hindering your weight loss efforts.

Did you know you can use your body as its own resonating chamber in order to feel an exchange with the flow of the world around you?

Michael Mervosh—clinical psychologist, founder and executive director of the Hero's Journey Foundation, joins Jim to talk about getting out of your head so you can be in your body, the concept of "PsychoEnergetics," and how music can play a huge part in self-actualization and community building.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Some people are able to find beauty, art and creativity in every aspect of their lives. Even when the everyday grind limits our access to it. But have you ever wondered where creativity comes from? How you can tap into it?

Jim welcomes singer-songwriter, multi-dimensional artist and his former Rusted Root bandmate Jenn Wertz to the show. They talk about the cathartic early days of the band, re-imagining personal identity and the healing power of music.

Learn how you can begin tapping into your own creative mindset in order to help manage depression and anxiety, which, as Jenn explains, will generate deeper life fulfillment.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

One in three American adults have high blood pressure (BP) or hypertension.

And it’s alarming how many of them don’t take it seriously...

Especially since high BP is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke—two leading causes of death in the U.S.

Today, I'll share a little-known antidote that’s showing promise in lowering BP numbers safely and without the costs and side effects of prescription meds.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Ignoring your body’s pleas for help can kill you.

I should know. It happened to me.

And one of the big things I learned was this: While we can’t always control the circumstances around us, we can control how we react to them.

Learn my simple, five-step, life-saving anxiety elimination technique, and make today the day you stop putting yourself last.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Have you ever wondered what goes into writing a song? Is it therapeutic? 

Jim welcomes Scott Blasey, lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist for Pittsburgh-based rock band, The Clarks. 

Scott reveals his songwriting process, what he looks to for inspiration, and how he gets into his creative zone. Jim teaches Scott about the vagus nerve and how singing produces “feel good chemicals” in your brain that improve your mood and focus.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

This anti-anxiety technique is so powerful it’s actually used by Navy SEALs to help them keep their cool in extreme circumstances—like jumping out of an airplane into enemy territory.

As former Navy SEAL Mark Divine describes in his book Unbeatable Mind, special ops forces can’t rely on substances to “take the edge off” before a potentially dangerous mission. They can’t risk clouding their focus or judgement…

So they tap into their body’s built-in systems to help them stay relaxed. Today you'll learn the same 5 simple steps the SEALs use to master your own calm.

Start your sound healing journey at www.donovanhealth.com

Aging is inevitable.

But thanks to some new groundbreaking scientific work, it is indeed possible to slam the breaks on aging.

The secret to this fountain of youth lies within your ability to disrupt your body’s own aging processes—all the way down to the cellular level. Today you'll learn about a part of your DNA called telomeres. Telomeres act as a "cap" on the end of a strand of DNA to protect your chromosomes from damage---a major factor linked to accelerated aging.

I'll share three telomere-strengthening lifestyle changes that can help you both look and feel decades younger.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Jim speaks with Dr. Stephen Porges who is known throughout the world as the founder of Polyvagal Theory and the music-based intervention, the Safe and Sound Protocol ™ , which currently is used by more than 1400 therapists to improve spontaneous social engagement, to reduce hearing sensitivities, and to improve language processing, state regulation, and spontaneous social engagement.

Dr. Porges has published more than 300 peer-reviewed papers across several disciplines and, in 1994, proposed the Polyvagal Theory, a theory that links the evolution of the mammalian autonomic nervous system to social behavior and emphasizes the importance of physiological state in the expression of behavioral problems and psychiatric disorders. 

Listen in as they discuss:

• How the vagus nerve is a conduit for mind-body connection.
• Why a mother’s lullaby helps us calm down through a structure in the middle ear.
• How higher vagal tone is related to better health.
• What is “violation of expectancy” and how we can use it for good. 
• How a person’s nervous system can “retune” due to illness or trauma history —and much more!

Learn more about Dr. Porges groundbreaking work: https://www.stephenporges.com/

https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/

Recommended Reading

Introduction to Healing with Sound: A Comprehensive Guide Discover the power of healing with sound! This comprehensive guide teaches you how to effectively use sound therapy to restore balance and health.

Healing the Body with Frequencies: The Basics Explained
Discover the secrets of healing your body with frequencies! This guide covers the basics of frequency healing and how to use it for better health and wellness.

Benefits of Vagus Nerve Exercises & 7 Simple Practices
Harness the power of the Vagus Nerve to improve health and wellbeing in a few simple steps! Discover what exercises you need to do, and why they are important.

Vagus Nerve Exercises for Stress and Anxiety Relief
Vagus Nerve exercises have been shown to ease stress and anxiety. Discover what the vagus nerve does, the latest research, and eight free vagus nerve exercises.

Music Healing for Stress, Anxiety and Pain
Music has been used as an effective tool to help people cope with anxiety, pain, stress, and more. Discover research and 7 tips for how music healing works.

Stimulating the Vagus Nerve for Better Sleep, Stress Relief & Health
The vagus nerve has been shown to be effective in treating insomnia, stress relief, anxiety, and mood. Learn 12 easy exercises for stimulation of vagus nerve.

The Absolute Beginners Guide to Sound Healing Explore the therapeutic benefits of sound healing with this easy-to-follow beginner's guide! Discover how to use sound to positively impact your body and mind.

What is Brain Humming? Brain Humming is an easy way to clear your mind and boost your mood using the power of sound. It’s also a great stress reliever. Beginner friendly tutorial.

2020 is so strange that I've taken up an unusual new hobby...

I hum to cows.

Why?

Simple put...it makes me feel good. 

Today I'll tell you how I ended up discovering this new practice with my bovine friends, why I've found "cow humming" to be excellent self care, and the five big benefits I'm receiving from this odd (but healthy) routine.

Start your sound healing journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

It’s 10:30 PM...You should be getting ready for bed, but there's this little voice in your head, luring you to the pantry. The more you try to ignore it, the louder it screams.

Fortunately, there’s a powerful way to kick your food cravings.

You don’t need to join a program, force yourself into an exercise routine, or starve yourself...

There's a sound technique you can use that's much easier & more fun. Plus, it’s completely free.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at ww.donovanhealth.com

We all know the phrase “laughter is the best medicine.” And according to Dr. Colleen Cooke, there’s scientific proof to back up this old adage.

Dr. Cooke is a Professor of Recreational Therapy at Slippery Rock University. She holds a PhD in Healthcare Education and a Master’s degree in Counseling. 

Jim asks Dr. Cooke about her work with addiction recovery patients, older adults experiencing memory issues, and people living with disabilities.

Dr. Cooke is also a certified "laughter leader," and recently co-authored a book called The Fun Encyclopedia for Therapists.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Could the cure for our growing neurodegenerative disease epidemic be found in an ancient Indian meditation? According to a recent study, yes!

It turns out, one miraculous meditation technique has been shown to increase blood flow to the brain. And it’s so easy, you can do it anytime, anywhere.

Jim will walk you through this healing sound technique that researchers have found to provide therapeutic brain benefits.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

If you’re recovering from surgery or an injury (or just looking to jumpstart a healthy routine), here are the strategies that worked best for me during my long road to recovery.

One tool that helped me heal the most? Music.

And according to the latest science, there's definitely something to this phenomenon.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com.

We’ve got a powerful and hopeful show for you today with our guest Jason Tafler.

Jason survived a near-death experience at the age of 40 caused by a severe inflammatory disease —  largely through the use of a wide variety of health modalities. 

That experience led him to found a company that is doing groundbreaking and important work called Unyte / Integrated Listening Systems.

They create neural solutions that help people rewire their nervous systems so they can feel more safe, regulated and resilient and better respond to life’s challenges. 

Jason shares a ton of valuable information with us today that you should know about. 

Learn more: www.integratedlistening.com and www.unyte.com

Recommended Reading

Introduction to Healing with Sound: A Comprehensive Guide Discover the power of healing with sound! This comprehensive guide teaches you how to effectively use sound therapy to restore balance and health.

Healing the Body with Frequencies: The Basics Explained
Discover the secrets of healing your body with frequencies! This guide covers the basics of frequency healing and how to use it for better health and wellness.

Benefits of Vagus Nerve Exercises & 7 Simple Practices
Harness the power of the Vagus Nerve to improve health and wellbeing in a few simple steps! Discover what exercises you need to do, and why they are important.

Vagus Nerve Exercises for Stress and Anxiety Relief
Vagus Nerve exercises have been shown to ease stress and anxiety. Discover what the vagus nerve does, the latest research, and eight free vagus nerve exercises.

Music Healing for Stress, Anxiety and Pain
Music has been used as an effective tool to help people cope with anxiety, pain, stress, and more. Discover research and 7 tips for how music healing works.

Stimulating the Vagus Nerve for Better Sleep, Stress Relief & Health
The vagus nerve has been shown to be effective in treating insomnia, stress relief, anxiety, and mood. Learn 12 easy exercises for stimulation of vagus nerve.

The Absolute Beginners Guide to Sound Healing Explore the therapeutic benefits of sound healing with this easy-to-follow beginner's guide! Discover how to use sound to positively impact your body and mind.

What is Brain Humming? Brain Humming is an easy way to clear your mind and boost your mood using the power of sound. It’s also a great stress reliever. Beginner friendly tutorial.

A 2011 study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association found that certain gait speeds—how fast you walk—were associated with a longer lifespan.

The researchers noted that survival differences were even more pronounced among the study participants 75 years of age and older.

But if your gait speed is on the slower side, don’t fret. You can improve it—easily and naturally. Today I'll show you how build your own rhythmic walking routine to easily boost your speed.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Are you having trouble falling asleep and staying asleep? It’s a really common problem, which is probably why the video of my TEDx talk on the subject has gone viral on YouTube.

The thing is, it doesn’t matter if you’ve been struggling with your sleep for weeks, months, or even years. You can learn how you can trick your brain into falling asleep—starting TONIGHT.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Goldfish have been shown to have an attention span of nine seconds—one second longer than that of the average human being.

Today I talk about the five different types of attention and how music has been used by researchers to increase personal focus performance.

You'll also get the personal playlist I use personally for mental focus when I need to block out distractions.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Sachin Patel is a father, husband, philanthropist, speaker, author, and plant medicine advocate. He is the founder of The Living Proof Institute through which he pioneered a revolutionary approach to patient-centered healthcare.

Dr. Patel asserts that "the doctor of the future is the patient" and he has committed himself to helping others raise their consciousness, activate their "inner doctor," and initiate their deepest healing through a combination of unique methodologies.

He also coaches hundreds of practitioners around the world so that they are empowered to deliver affordable and inspired care to their communities through his Perfect Practice Mentorship Program.  

This enlightening episode includes discussions on such topics as the emerging world of functional medicine, how to "reboot" unhelpful mental patterns, and some little-known therapies for strengthening the vagus nerve and the parasympathetic nervous system.

To learn more about Sachin Patel and his forward-thinking work, visit www.30in30.org or www.thelivingproofinstitute.com. 

Music exists in every culture on Earth. It’s been used for spiritual and religious purposes, entertainment, and everything from weddings to funerals. But you can also use music to wake up your brain and improve your processing speed.

There are three easy ways you can use music to amplify your cognition. Want to give it a try?

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

What are the best frequencies to use for inducing sleep?

Pink noise? White noise? Nature sounds?

In one study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, researchers studied how pink noise affected sleep quality of 13 older adults between the ages of 60 and 84. The participants completed two sleep sessions—one where they listened to pink noise before sleep and one where no noise was played.

I'll tell you what the research discovered and how you can try your own sleep inducing frequencies at home. 

Start your sound healing journey for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Prolonged stress and anxiety take a toll on your health. Stress can come from your work, your environment, or just moving around daily life on planet earth!

And feeling stressed is an inevitable part of the current COVID-19 situation, too.

Today I'll walk you through my "Anxiety First Aid" technique. It's three simple steps you can take anytime, anywhere to help calm and center yourself. And the bonus is that it's also good for your immune system, too.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

The importance of music in our schools cannot be overstated.

Not only can music teach confidence, a sense of purpose, and a reason to come to school—as it did for me—but it’s extremely beneficial for a variety of essential life skills & brain development.

Yet, here in the U.S., funding cuts in this department are rampant.

I’ve been a music educator for nearly 25 years & a musician for nearly my entire life.

Today, I'll be talking about why the arts are absolutely essential to our culture and our health.

This is one of my favorite stories to tell.

Once upon a time my band, Rusted Root, played a gig...and no one showed up to see us.

Except for a lone woman and her dog. And little did we know, all hell was about to break loose...Our dreams of making it big were about to become a reality.

How? Early on in our career as a band we all committed to a practice that I believe solidified our success…

Learn how you can incorporate this one simple thing into your life today.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

How can you lead yourself to a mental “higher ground” while  sheltering in your home? What do you do when everything seems to be falling apart?

Retired Green Beret Lieutenant Colonel Scott Mann spent nearly 23 years in the U.S. Army, and over 18 years in Special Operations. He has seen his fair share of chaos around the globe.

Today Scott shares the tools and routines that helped him both in combat and in life at home. He talks about how he's applying his "chaos training" right now to the COVID-19 crisis and gives you three things you can do today to better lead your life.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

We spend so much of our lives chasing happiness—all the while trying to figure out who we really are. 

Jim welcomes very special guest, Krishna Das—an American vocalist known for his Hindu devotional music, kirtan. Considered to be “yoga’s rock star,” Krishna Das has become a worldwide icon and the best-selling western chant artist of all time.

Krishna talks with Jim about leaving his rock n’ roll dreams, the spiritual journey that followed, and how to use sound, meditation, and mantra chanting as tools to rediscover yourself.

Krishna has released 17 albums—including one Grammy-nominated album in 2013—has published six books, offers online tutorials, and facilitates retreats and workshops all over the world. You can also watch an award-winning film about his life, called One Track Heart: The Story of Krishna Das.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

I get the following question quite a bit from readers:

"Are there any 'healing sounds' to help alleviate tinnitus?"

The answer is yes! 

Today I'll tell you exactly what's going on inside your ears when you experience tinnitus, the sounds that I use whenever I experience ringing in my ears, and a list of common do's and don'ts to help curtail tinnitus flare-ups.

Start your sound healing journey for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Cutting-edge research has found that sound vibration can be remarkably effective in helping stroke victims regain function and improve quality of life.

Today you'll learn about the remarkable ways sound is being used to aid stroke victims in their recovery.

I also share my easy 4-step stroke recovery and prevention method that you can use everyday at home.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Teachers have one of the most important jobs on the planet: They have the power to shape the trajectory of a young person’s life for the better. And that was precisely the case with Jim’s first music teacher—and now lifelong friend—Rich Kingera.

Rich was a music educator for 36 years, and now spends his time still actively playing music. He's the organist and choir director at his church in Pennsylvania, as well as the keyboardist for three local music groups. Most recently, he obtained a professional certificate from Berklee College of Music.

In this episode of Sound Health, Rich talks about how learning and playing music can develop the brain in some pretty amazing ways—no matter your age. (He stresses that it’s never too late to learn!) Rich also shares a few personal experiences in witnessing music’s power to improve the quality of life in both children with autism and the elderly.

You might also be surprised to learn this music teacher’s philosophy when it comes to practicing, and what happened after Rich caught Jim playing the school’s drum kit without permission.

Rich and Jim also touch on the threat to music education, its big-picture potential, and how educational curriculum should be revised to use music as a tool—especially based on what we know now about its many benefits.

Coronary Artery blockages can be terrifying—especially given the typical options for treatment.

But a team of doctors from Flower Hill, NY are using sound to help obliterate plaque build-up. It’s called “intravascular lithotripsy.”

Learn how these doctors are using sound waves to clear arterial blockages, as well as one of my favorite heart-healthy sound solutions that you can try today to reduce inflammation, curtail stress, and regulate heart rate and blood pressure.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

We’ve all heard of “air guitar,” but what about “air drumming”? Same fantasy, different instrument.

But what if I told you all that musical daydreaming was doing wonders for your brain? Whether you’re playing an actual drum kit, some pots and pans, or just hitting the skins on an imaginary stage, musical skills equals a stronger memory.

Learn how you can start drumming today—in 7 easy steps—and activate your brain’s fullest musical potential. 

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

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Sound healing can help you relieve and “open” any part of your head and torso that feels tense—like an internal massage.

In many people, daily stress manifests itself as tension, aches and pains. But whether you realize it or not, sweet relief can be achieved simply by using your voice.

Find out Jim's simple, 6-step exercise that can heal your pain in 5 minutes or less!

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

In this eye-opening interview, Jim speaks with Carolyn Thomas. Carolyn is a Mayo Clinic-trained women’s health advocate, a heart attack survivor, and author of the book A Women’s Guide to Living with Heart Disease. 

Carolyn and Jim discuss whether high blood pressure is always an indicator of heart disease—and what to do about it. As well as six of the biggest myths about women and heart disease, the recovery-boosting habits she adopted following her own heart attack, the deadly discrepancy between heart disease diagnosis for men and women, and the life-saving questions women aren’t asking their doctors about their heart health.

From the beginning of time, rhythm has been a universal healer. In fact, your body is creating its own rhythm as you read this… The blood pumping through your veins, your heart pumping in your chest, the inhale/exhale of your lungs.

And when it comes to creating rhythm, I’ve seen thousands of people experience the deep, therapeutic effects and catharsis in the drumming workshops I facilitate.

Learn how you can unlock the 11 health benefits of rhythm and movement!

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

Have you ever wanted to learn to play the guitar? How about the piano? Well, turns out, learning an instrument can be a very beneficial hobby.

According to an emerging body of research, you can drastically lower your dementia risk by learning to play an instrument—no matter what your age.

And older adults who are musical have actually been shown to excel cognitively.

Learn how you can plan for a brighter, sharper brain—starting today!

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

I've recently seen a lot of research touting the heart benefits of a specific technique that’s taking the alternative health world by storm…

This system is called heart rate variability, or HRV—a reliable health marker that can indicate your current state of health and fitness.

Today I'll teach you how you can improve your HRV (and your mood!) with a simple 1 minute technique.

Start your sound healing journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

What if I said that you can actually make your brain “grow”?

Turns out, it’s true! Due to a cognitive process called neurogenesis, your brain can actually grow new neurons, which has an outstanding overall benefit for your entire body.

Find out the science behind neurogenesis, as well as the three most affordable, natural strategies to kick your neuron-making into overdrive.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com

In this episode of Sound Health, Jim sits down with Nashwan Abdullah, a 28-year-old Syrian violinist.

Nashwan talks about what it was like living in a war-torn Syria and how people there lean on music to help heal & carry on.

He also details his incredible journey of traveling around the world and playing on street corners for pennies a day, which eventually led him to America.

Nashwan shares what life's been like after making it to the U.S. with nothing more than a dream & his prized violin.

Have you ever taken a yoga class, or participated in a guided meditation, immediately felt the positive change in your body, and wondered why?

Turns out, there’s a scientific explanation behind it. It has to do with harnessing the vibrational energy in our own bodies, which activates your nervous system, thwarting depression, anxiety, irritability, as well as lowering blood pressure and having a positive effect on heart rate.

Learn how to tap into this vibration with 5 simple steps.

Start your journey with Jim for FREE at www.donovanhealth.com