Music Relieves Stress
March is National Music Month. There are some fabulous ways to experience music, even if you cannot attend live events at this time. With apps like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, we literally have selections at our fingertips. Did you know, though that what you listen to can literally heal or harm you?
Music has been used for hundreds of years to treat illnesses and restore harmony between mind and body. Research today has provided evidence-based support for incorporating music in our lives to reduce pain, stress, among other components.
According to psychcentral.com, the soothing power of music is well-established. It has a unique link to our emotions and can be an extremely effective stress management tool. Slow, quiet, instrumental music can relax our minds and bodies. The Power of Music To Reduce Stress (psychcentral.com). It slows the pulse, heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and decreases stress hormones. The music focuses our attention, provides a healthy distraction and helps to explore and express emotions. It can aid meditation and help prevent the mind from wandering.
Music preferences vary widely, however. What works for one person may be different for someone else. It’s important to find and explore what works for you. If you’re not someone that gravitates to trying music when feeling stressed, avoiding music is often common. However, I encourage yourself to give it try.
Here are some simple ways to explore music for yourself:
- Make a portable playlist. Listen from your computer, phone, computer, or car.
- Listen while walking, bathing, meditating, or doing household tasks.
- Listen while walking your dog.
- If your music has lyrics, sing along to release tension.
- Listen to calming music for peace and relaxation before bed to induce sleep.
- If you play an instrument, practice with intention, without judgment, and listen deeply.
For more information about music therapy and how it could benefit your life, please contact me at SHCS.