Several wide-ranging health benefits are associated with listening to music, including better memory and mood, social connection, energy, and even heart health.
Music seems to be an instinct for humans. People sing and dance in the privacy of their own homes, in the shower, or at concerts and nightclubs. Singers and musicians are revered in society, and according to some experts, music is as old as humans.
Let’s take a look at some of the ways that enjoying music may help your health.
Learning: Some researchers recommend listening to music to stimulate the brain. Studies have shown it engages the brain and may enhance learning. One caveat here: lyrics may make it harder to learn. So, if you’re studying, stick to instrumentals.
Memory: There is data to suggest that classical music can help people recall recently learned information (if listened while learning). Studies also show that music can be a helpful tool in engaging people with Alzheimer’s. Playing popular music from their era, or music that they enjoyed, helps them recall memories.
Mood: Listening to music, singing, and dancing can all help boost mood. The benefits are connected to increased “feel good” hormone production, like dopamine and serotonin.
Heart Health: Music stimulates movement, and that’s always good for heart health. Even if you’re not dancing, listening to music can alter your breath rate, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Boosts Energy: You don’t need a doctorate to know that turning up your favorite song can turn your energy up too. But studies have even shown that listening to relaxing music can help reduce fatigue and improve endurance.
Music has a lot of power over people, and it seems to be instinctual to humans. It may even help your health.