The advantages of listening to music are well-documented and have a wide range, from physical health to mental well-being.
There are many ways music can positively impact lives, here are some according to Healthline and Southwestern Music Therapy.
Improve mood
According to Healthline, a health publication with medical experts, music can lift up your spirits and make you feel happier through the release of dopamine and serotonin. Music can also evoke memories and emotions whilst it can trigger the release of the love hormone, Oxytocin.
Healthline also adds that, music can stimulate the release of natural painkillers called endorphins with the feel-good chemicals.
Lower heart rate
Lowering of the heart rate by music happens due to the releasing of neurotransmitter serotonin which helps to regulate mood and promotes relaxation.
Southwestern Music Therapy- private practice, established to provide quality music therapy interventions, also adds that when you are feeling stressed or anxious try to listen to soothing music to help your body relax so that the heart rate can be lower.
Boost energy levels
Healthline says that music can increase the release of the brain chemical associated with pleasure and energy, it also stimulates the sympathetic nervous system which is responsible for the flight or fight reaction. When the sympathetic nervous system is activated, adrenaline is also released which can increase the energy levels.
The combination of dopamine and adrenaline can make a person feel energised when listening to music.
Improve memory
The above-mentioned source says that music has been proven to improve episodic memory or the ability to recall specific details. This can help with the creation of strong associations between the music and the event. Music can also help with improving work memory because it stimulates the frontal lobe which is responsible for working memory.
When you are feeling under the weather, music can help you lift your spirits back up. Turn up your favorite song and sing along.
