Music has a powerful effect on our brains and bodies. It can affect our mood, emotions, behavior, cognitive function and physical health. Scientific findings prove the healing power of music and underline it as a valuable tool for improving physical and mental health.
Reducing stress and anxiety
Music can help reduce levels of cortisol, a hormone released in response to stress. It can also help relax muscles and improve sleep quality.
For example, a study conducted by the University of Maryland found that listening to relaxing music for 30 minutes a day for four weeks reduced cortisol levels by 25% in people with anxiety.
Mood improvement
Music can help improve mood and relieve depression. It can also help people deal with pain and trauma.
For example, a study conducted by the University of California at Berkeley found that listening to upbeat music for 30 minutes a day for two weeks improved mood in people with depression.
Improved cognitive function
Music can help improve memory, concentration and attention. It can also help people with dementia and other cognitive disorders.
For example, a study conducted by Emory University found that listening to classical music for 30 minutes per day for six months improved memory and attention in people with dementia.
Improved motor function
It can help improve coordination, balance and strength. It can also help people with cerebral palsy and other motor disorders.
For example, a study conducted by the University of Utah found that dancing helped improve coordination and balance in people with cerebral palsy.
Specific examples of how music has been used to treat medical conditions
It has been used successfully in the treatment of a variety of conditions including:
- Heart diseases: It can help lower blood pressure, heart rate and oxidative stress.
For example, a study conducted by Stanford University found that listening to classical music for 30 minutes a day for six weeks lowered blood pressure in people with heart disease.
- Mental illness: It can help reduce depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress.
For example, a study from the University of Oxford found that listening to relaxing music for 30 minutes a day for four weeks reduced depression and anxiety in people with anxiety disorders.
- Pain: It can help relieve chronic and acute pain.
For example, a University of Toronto study found that listening to relaxing music for 30 minutes a day for two weeks reduced pain in people with chronic pain.
- Rehabilitation: May help improve motor and cognitive function after injury or illness.
For example, a study conducted by the University of California, San Francisco found that dancing helped improve motor function in people with brain injuries.
Considerations on the use of music for healing purposes
Music is a powerful tool that can have a positive impact on physical and mental health. However, it is important to keep some considerations in mind when using it for medicinal purposes.
First of all, it is important to choose the right music for the desired purpose. Relaxing can be useful for reducing stress and anxiety, while lively mood can be useful for improving physical activity or mood.
Secondly, it is important to actively listen. This means paying attention and letting it affect you.
Third, it is important to be patient. It may take some time for the healing effects to occur.
