Whether to liven up a gathering or to help us pass the time during a commute, we often use music to affect our moods. Yet, music has an impact on us that runs far deeper than just how we feel; it also affects our psychology.
Music’s influence is ever present throughout our lives. We learn our ABCs with melodies, television plays catchy theme songs for us to remember, and the latest pop songs blare continuously through the car radio. According to a University of Pavia study, these interactions with music can impact our productivity, build empathy and reduce depression.
One way that music affects us is by stimulating the mind for productivity. As explained by Healthline; classical music can help your brain interpret new information more easily. According to a survey by Onepoll, 75 percent of people said it helps them absorb information. Students can heavily benefit from using music as a tool while studying and as a way to focus.
“Music actually helps us think, not just helps us relax, it composes the neurons in certain ways,” French teacher Georges Lesperance said. “There is research that indicates Mozart helps young kids develop their intelligence and it helps the thinking process.”
According to Pfizer, blood flow to the parts of the brain that produce and regulate emotions is increased when you listen to or create music. It can be cathartic to listen to music that speaks to our emotions, which can aid in the processing and coping of traumatic events. Positive lyrics in upbeat songs can increase feelings of joy and energy, while slower, melodic music can promote peace and relaxation. Your brain releases dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical, when you listen to music you like, which is what makes you feel these feelings of joy and relaxation.
“Music plays a role in and it’s subjective to how you feel, whether it is a conscious or subconscious feeling,” senior Andrew Hyppolite said.
Music has also proven to be effective across a variety of treatment scenarios for conditions ranging from depression to Parkinson’s disease, as reported by the University of Arizona. Known as vibroacoustic therapy, the intervention involves using low-frequency sounds to produce vibrations applied directly to the body. Researchers found that its use improved patients’ symptoms.
Research like this helps expand our understanding and our tools in healthcare. For instance, according to FHE Health, listening to soothing music can calm fears and relax tight muscles, helping patients benefit from treatment. Music can be an effective technique for reducing stress and improving well-being. Health problems such as high blood pressure, chronic pain and PTSD can often be alleviated with music therapy.
Music is a versatile tool that has a significant impact on our brains and attitudes. There is a genre to meet your needs, whether you’re looking for inspiration, relaxation, or to tap into your emotions. You can utilize music to improve your mood and attitude by understanding how it affects you. So whenever you put on your headphones, think about how your music selection can impact your day.