This week’s blog was inspired by a Rotary meeting John and I attended recently. The guest spoke about the correlation between music and health. What a concept! I listened intently and came away with a refreshed attitude about using music for enjoyment as well as for therapeutic purposes.
AHHHH…SWEET MUSIC
Research reveals that listening to music can improve physical and mental health in myriad amazing ways. It has been said that taking music lessons can raise your IQ and even help keep us sharper in our senior years. This fun fact is of particular interest to me!
SCIENTISIT REPORT…
Scientists have found that music releases dopamine which biologically caused people to feel happiness, excitement and joy. A brisk 3 mile walk multiple times per week as well as a couple of sessions at the gym are my options for exercise. Upbeat music while exercising is a serious mood enhancer for me which increases endurance and makes working out much more enjoyable.
LOWERS STRESS
Music can lower stress because it decreases the levels of cortisol which is a stress hormone. It had been reported that stress can cause 60% of illness and disease. Interestingly, music can be beneficial to those who don’t sleep well. Thirty percent of Americans don’t get enough sleep. Those who suffer from insomnia may be at risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and poor mental health. Even just one night of poor sleep can affect your day. If you are an insomniac, you may benefit significantly from listening to music before bed.
QUOTE
“Music was my refuge. I could crawl into the space between the notes and curl my back to loneliness.”
-Maya Angelou
BENFITS
Other amazing benefits of listening to music is that can help people with depression and help elevate your mood. It can also strengthen learning and memory, relax you, help with pain management and aid in recovery, increase verbal intelligence, raise IQ and academic performance, and can keep your brain healthy in old age.
POWER TOOL
Music is a mighty powerful tool as it releases feel good transmitters called Dopamine, Serotonin and Oxytocin. It has the ability to evoke emotional responses, release stress and alter moods. Www.tmh.org reports that music can help retain essential information despite memory loss. Music memory is stored in the hippocampus, centrally located in the brain. Therefore, music memories are less likely to be negatively impacted by age or disease. We have all experienced a familiar tune that elicits emotions associated with memories.
IN A NUTSHELL…
The health benefits of listening to music are significant. At HDD, your health is our priority. In our reception area we have recently added some great channels with peaceful music and beautiful visuals to help with your relaxation as you wait for your ultrasound appointment. If we can help facilitate your comfort in any other way while in our office, don’t hesitate to notify any of our exemplary staff members. You can reach us at 505-350-3397.