From the early stages of life, music helps us communicate, express feelings and emotions; but also, it helps us to relax and feel good, even in the womb.
This is because the rhythm and tonality of music influence the limbic areas of the brain connected to emotions. In addition, music reduces the cortisol that the body produces to maintain alertness in situations of stress or anxiety. That's why music helps us to relax when we're stressed.
The healing power of music is such that more and more health professionals are including music therapy among their services.
7 health benefits of music
- Improves mood.
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
- Stimulates creativity.
- Improves concentration and learning.
- Helps with socializing.
- Reduces the perception of pain.
- Improves behavioural problems.
The science behind music
There is increasing scientific evidence on the health benefits of music. Some studies have already shown that:
- Reduces pain. Music increases the production of endorphins, which act as natural pain relievers. That’s why music therapy is very useful for people with chronic pain.
- Improves memory and communication in people with Alzheimer and other dementias: It’s been proven that when they listen to a song from their past, they bring back memories of that time.
- Reduces anxiety and pain in children who are in the ER. This is because when listening to music, cortisol levels drop, the body is no longer on alert and begins to relax.
- In cancer patients, it reduces anxiety, pain and mood, controls heart rate and blood pressure, and improves quality of life.
- Helps to control blood pressure. Listening to classical music (or the one you like best) for half an hour every day, reduces blood pressure.
- Improves cognitive skills. Listening to music activates the areas of the brain that help to better process information.
- Reduces the intensity and duration of migraines.
- Boost the immune system. High levels of cortisol impair the immune system. Music lowers these levels and improves the body's ability to protect itself.
Music everywhere
To enjoy the benefits of music, you don't need to go to a specialized center. You can get these benefits in any place and situation: at home, on the way to work, while working out, cooking...
So, don't wait any longer and make a perfect playlist to improve your emotions and have positive thoughts. Try it! Listen to an upbeat song that reminds you of a pleasant moment in your life and you’ll see how your positivity grows.
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