Music is surprisingly powerful. I say surprisingly because its effects go beyond its known power of changing one’s mood. It can change lives. The prodigious Greek philosopher Plato explained, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” It is with music that we feel not only a stronger beat in a song, but a stronger beat in our hearts as well…and here’s why:
1. Music boosts dopamine.
When you listen to music you like, your brain releases dopamine. Dopamine is the “godsent” neurotransmitter that causes people to feel emotions such as joy and excitement. Pet scans have revealed large amounts of dopamine being released in the brain when participants listen to music. The effects are so significant that Joke Bradt, a researcher on music therapy, said “music interventions may be used as a complementary treatment to people with cancer.” due to its positive effects on the psyche.
2. Music improves fitness.
“Pump-up” music has been shown to boost workout motivation, thus enhancing endurance. Some singers are especially good at getting people going with their motivational lyrics such as Eminem has done. In one of his songs he famously says, “If you had one shot, one opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted, one moment, would you capture it? Or just let it slip?” Try making a playlist with songs that inspire you before your next workout and watch the improvement!
3. Music alleviates pain.
Many hospitals have begun using music therapy to reduce pain! Music that people find emotionally engaging can affect the brain’s opioid system. Opioids control physical pain and furthermore, the pain of social loss. Music also helps decrease anxiety, to the point where it’s even more effective than taking Midazolam! Midazolam is a medication used for pre-op patients in order for them to feel relaxed or sleepy. Try listening to your favorite tracks before popping another Advil.
4. Music for appetite control.
When the body is under high psychological stress (for example during midterms or finals week), the stress hormone cortisol is increased. Music, however, has the power to counteract this effect and decrease stress! This is a great way to boost the basal (resting) metabolism naturally and get one more in tune with their hunger cues.
5. Music keeps your heart healthy.
Studies have shown that music can strengthen the heart, resulting in a more speedy recovery for those suffering from heart diseases. At the Massachusetts General Hospital, it was observed that patients with heart problems who listened to at least 30 minutes of music a day had lower blood pressure, slower heart rates, and less distress than those who didn’t listen to music.
6. Music helps you remember.
Music strengthens learning and memory. One of the greatest tools of music, I believe, is its power on people with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Since music is stored in the parts of the brain associated with memory, listening to certain songs can help recover lost memories. Think of when you were younger and in order to learn your ABC’s you sang a song. Memory and music have a powerful and advantageous connection.
Music improves our mental and physical wellbeing, keeps us sharp at an old age, and perhaps most importantly, it keeps us young. We must not forget to work hard, but just like children we’re wild at heart. Play your favorite song. Sing. Dance. Laugh. Smile. The power of music is incredibly life-changing.
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