Posted on July 10, 2015
Music is one of the oldest and most universal traditions that humanity holds. Every culture, both ancient and modern, has developed and experimented with different forms of music. Music has played a part in ceremonies, celebrations, meditations and other events throughout our documented human history, but only recently have we had the equipment with which to study exactly what effect music has on people. Incredibly, music does more for us than anyone previously realized, both physically and mentally.
Because music is intangible, we have long suspected its mental benefits, even before we could study them. Modern science can now monitor brain activity and interpret brain signals into images on a screen, and like our intuition would indicate, we have observed proof that music has the ability to improve our mental state. Music consumption and creation engages our brains in ways that no other activity does. Listening to music inspires our creativity, sharpens our focus, increases our relaxation and empowers our self expression, as well as many other benefits.
The mental health benefits of music are vast, but something that comes as a bit more of a surprise is the fact that music also aids in our physical health. The connection between physical health and music is harder to detect scientifically, but studies still indicate that music has the ability to effect physical health over time. Playing music has been connected to reducing the pressure of headaches and migraines. Because of its calming effect, music can lower blood pressure. Music is even capable of reducing pain symptoms and boosting the immune system. If you are struggling with mental hardships or physical discomfort, it is wise to increase the music consumption in your life for its health benefits. Not all therapies are cognitive or analytical. Simply absorbing music can give you the peace of mind that you are craving.