WELLNESS, WRITING, & HEALING MUSIC
Through the meditative sounds of the handpan and guided writing practices, Kelly facilitates deeper connections with oneself and others. By strengthening individuals and communities, she aims to foster unity over division, cultivating inner peace and harmony. This healing journey is a commitment to ourselves, each other, and future generations.
GUIDED WRITING PROGRAMS
Kelly has pioneered a wellness program centered around guided writing. She has led transformative programs for Women Writing for (a) Change and provided writing workshops for Artists on Tour through the Cincinnati Arts Association. She developed “Celebrating Our Struggles,” a six-part writing series using Women Writing for (a) Change circle practices, guiding participants on a healing journey to discover greater purpose and self-worth. Each part can be offered standalone or as a cohesive six-part process, supporting a journey toward wholeness.
HEALING MUSIC PERFORMANCE
Kelly is dedicated to using music as a powerful tool for healing. Specializing in environmental handpan music, Kelly performs at various healthcare settings, including hospices, UC MedCenter, the VA Hospital, and community events across Ohio. Her performances are tailored to create a soothing and therapeutic atmosphere, bringing comfort and peace to patients and audiences alike. Kelly is open to collaborating with new groups to explore innovative ways of harnessing music for healing purposes.
COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Kelly partners with Nurse Practitioner and Yoga Instructor Tamara White at Self Care Providers, dedicated to promoting wellness through self-care practices. Their transformative programs, designed for busy, stressed individuals and groups, emphasize ‘The Best Health-Care is Self-Care.’ With 40 combined years of experience in healthcare, personal development, and spiritual healing, they offer tailored programs from one-hour sessions to full weekend retreats. Explore their offerings at Self Care Providers, ideal for both organizations and community groups.
Chair Yoga – Experience the power of chair yoga with yoga instructor and nurse practitioner Tami White. Tami’s gentle flow restorative chair yoga classes incorporate breath work, guided meditation, and mindfulness practices. Healing Music – Experience the power of healing music by Kelly Richey. Kelly plays healing music on the handpan and Native American flute for yoga classes and wellness workshops.
HOW I GOT INVOLVED IN THE HEALING ARTS
Growing up in a strict Southern Baptist community, I wrestled with my identity amidst the challenges of dyslexia and ADHD. At fifteen, I was handed a guitar, a simple act that ignited a fire within. I found myself on a whirlwind journey from Kentucky to New York and Nashville. I toured with several bands, eventually joining one that signed with a major label. I played at Farm Aid, opened for James Brown, and performed with my guitar hero Albert King.
I then formed the Kelly Richey Band, an indie blues-rock power trio, and spent another decade touring, producing 16 records, managing the band, and teaching guitar online from the road. It was everything I ever wanted, and it was completely exhausting. The glamor of the music industry faded, replaced by addiction and disconnection. Recognizing the need for change, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, reclaiming my health and passion and delving deeply into the healing arts.
Realizing the transformative power of music, I found a new mission: to merge my passion for music with the healing arts. But it wasn’t until the lockdown forced me to pause that I stumbled upon a new instrument—the handpan. This discovery opened doors to a new world of musical exploration and healing.
Collaborating with like-minded teachers, I now strive to use music as a tool for self-discovery. I launched a healing through writing program based on my training in multiple wellness modalities. I regularly perform the handpan at yoga and healing arts programs, wellness retreats, and mental health programs. My vision now stretches beyond the stage. My long-term goal is to open a global retreat center where frontline workers can find respite and renewal while becoming reenergized to continue their vital work. I believe we can change the world through music and community, one note at a time.