THE HEALING POWER OF MUSIC

“If I were not a physicist, I would probably be a musician. I often think in music. I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music.”− Einstein, 1929.

Music is a fundamental attribute of the human species. Virtually all cultures, from the most primitive to the most advanced, make music. From the earliest days of civilization, music has been used to heal the body and soul, and to express what is difficult to articulate in words. Music is in many ways the fabric of our lives and the definition of society.

Music has a great impact on mental health and music therapy, combined with talk therapy boosts dopamine levels, the hormone which plays a role in reward-motivation behavior. Studies conducted by researchers have found that music releases the hormone dopamine, the feel-good chemicals in our brain. It has also been found that dopamine was up to 9% higher when volunteers listened to music that they enjoyed. It may be obvious to us, but it is strong evidence for the link between music and mental wellbeing.

Music acts as a medium for processing emotions, trauma, and grief—but music can also be utilized as a regulating or calming agent for anxiety or dysregulation.1

Listening and creating music within a therapeutic context allows individuals to express themselves in nonverbal ways. The interplay of melody, harmony, and rhythm stimulate the senses of a person and promote calmness by slowing down the breath, heart rate, and other bodily functions.

The notion that music can influence your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors probably does not come as much of a surprise. If you’ve ever felt pumped up while listening to your favorite fast-paced rock anthem or been moved to tears by a tender live performance, then you easily understand the power of music to impact moods and even inspire action.

Listening to music, at least music with a slow tempo and low pitch, can calm people down even during highly stressful and painful events. It can also help with pain management, for example during childbirth.

So, instead of thinking of music as pure entertainment, consider some of the major mental benefits of incorporating music into your everyday life. You might find that you feel more motivated, happy, and relaxed as a result. Whenever you feel low, do try to listen to music that you like. Start your journey towards healing through music. Make it a part of your life and feel it.

Do check out our Spotify playlists specially created for helping us throughout the ups and downs of life.

Spotify playlist links: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0kh3eXjEprv7RGc6Bfj2AW?si=P5sI5U72TUWbDsM0Oo-Nuw

1)    Playlist 1- Good vibezzz, my friend, you are not alone! To help you find motivation

2)     Playlist 2- Sounds of Nature. To help you relax!

References:

1. Perry: Rhythm Regulates the Brain. Accessed August 31, 2020. https://attachmentdisorderhealing.com/developmental-trauma-3/

Mahima Saptarshi
Mahima Saptarshi

A second year medical student in Mumbai, India. Very passionate about mental health and wishes to see a world where everyone can be unapologetically themselves!
“Students against COVID has been a wonderful platform for students across the globe to connect and form long lasting bonds!”

Priyanka Singh
Priyanka Singh

A final year Master’s in Biotechnology student from GNIPST, Kolkata, India. Avid member of “Suicide Prevention and Awareness” Campaign. Suggested to include ‘The role of music to spread positivity and help people to avoid negative thoughts’ for the campaign.
“Mahima was an amazing project partner who helped me throughout, without her it was impossible to complete this work. Subha, one our leads was always there for us, guiding us and helping us whenever we needed. Thank you Leah, Gul ,Subha and Komal for providing me this opportunity. Thanks to the entire team for always supporting us .”

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