The Healing Power of Music

Music has been embedded in our lives since we were little. From our parents singing us to sleep to listening to Christmas carols at school or watching your favourite music videos, glued to the telly.

Experiencing heartbreak? Immerse yourself in music, cry it out. Work is stressing you? Music is the answer. Feeling down? Dance to some funky jams to get rid of the blues. Music has been the instant remedy for me. When I was a teenager, I could barely get out of bed to go to school. Yes, you name – I would stretch in bed and put on my headphones, then warily slide to the bathroom to get ready. It has helped me get the most out of the highs and overcome the lows.

From ancient rituals to modern-day concerts, music has been an inseparable part of our society. Beyond its emotional and aesthetic appeal, research shows that music can have healing and soothing properties, especially for people, suffering from depression[1]. Yes, the evidence isn’t anecdotal, different approaches witness that music can serve as potential a remedy for different ailments which I will discuss in this article and draw on its impact on our mood and well-being.

The science of sound healing

Let’s start by introducing some key facts. According to researcher Lutz Jäncke from the University of Zurich, music is closely linked to strong emotional feelings and activates the entire limbic system, which processes emotions and controls memory[2]. He then continues to discuss the relationship between music and memory and states that familiar tunes often trigger memories. Even though music might primarily be processed based on how it sounds, it can still be connected to memories and feelings[3]. I believe that is why we turn to familiar tunes – remembering songs that make us feel warm and fuzzy inside, instils a sense of serenity and stability.

The benefits of listening to music

It is very important to choose those melodies that increase serenity, self-esteem, and self-awareness; don’t just fall into the abyss of negativity, however tempting it might be. Yes, cleansing yourself by listening to something that reminds you of some vulnerable moments is an option. Nevertheless, I’d like to focus on the possible advantages that the power of music can bring us. Here are several pros that should be taken into account:

Stress Reduction: Music therapy has been shown to effectively mitigate the physiological effects of stress. Calming melodies can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, counteracting the “fight-or-flight” response. Research shows that listening to soothing music can lower cortisol levels, reduce heart rate, and decrease blood pressure.

Pain Management: Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects people of different ages. Music therapy can greatly influence not only psychological but also the physiological responses our body makes. By diverting attention from pain and inducing relaxation, music can significantly improve pain tolerance and quality of life for patients.

Mood Enhancement: The power of music to influence mood is probably the most apparent. Upbeat and energetic music can elevate mood, increase energy levels as well as dopamine, and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Cognitive Function: Music engagement, whether through listening, playing an instrument, or music therapy, has been linked to cognitive benefits as per research that was quoted above. Music can improve attention span, as well as induce creativity. Also, learning how to play a new instrument can not only become a great hobby but also soothe our wandering souls.

Sleep Improvement: Soothing melodies can help relax the mind and body, creating a conducive environment for falling asleep and maintaining restful sleep throughout the night. Try a peaceful guided meditation that incorporates gentle instrumental music with the sounds of nature. Trust me, you will thank me later.

Incorporating Music into Your Life

To appreciate the healing power of music, it has to surround us for a great portion of our daily lives. Here are several simple tips on how to enjoy the benefits of some relaxing tunes:

Create a personalized playlist: Curate a collection of music that resonates with your mood and emotions. From “Heavy metal bands” to “Music to chill to while studying”, create playlists that can be easily accessible in times of hardship.
Learn a musical instrument: Have you ever wanted to learn how to play the flute? The guitar? What about drums? Connect with music on a deeper level by engaging in the act of making music.
Attend live performances: Immerse yourself in the ambiance of live music. Whether it’s a jazz festival or a rock concert, find the crowd that warms your heart the most.
Practice mindfulness with music: As I have mentioned earlier, combine music with meditation or deep breathing exercises to let go of the stress, accumulated throughout the day.
Explore music therapy: Consider seeking professional music therapy. Join music therapy groups where you can find like-minded people who could relate to your stories. Maybe you’d also be able to new friends who would support you in your journey.

Final remarks

Music isn’t just mere entertainment – it can have an enormous effect on our well-being. From reducing stress and managing pain to enhancing mood, the benefits of music are clearly visible. By incorporating music into our daily lives we can alleviate different stressors and triggers. Whether it’s listening to your favourite playlist in the car or going to the opera with your friends, music can bring you solace even in the most difficult of times.

[1] Aalbers, S., Fusar-Poli, L., Freeman, R. E., Spreen, M., Ket, J. C., Vink, A. C., Maratos, A., Crawford, M., Chen, X., & Gold, C. (2017). Music therapy for depression. Cochrane Library, 2017(11). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd004517.pub3

[2] Jäncke, L. (2008). Music, memory and emotion. Journal of Biology, 7(6), 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/jbiol82

[3] Ibid.