The Healing Power of Music
Nov 02, 2023
Recently, I was in a funky mood.
I know, some of you are thinking, “The anxiety detox lady? She can only ever be joyful and peaceful!”
The truth is, we are ALL meant to experience a range of emotions. Emotions aren’t necessarily bad but we don’t want to get stuck in one mode for too long.
Even joy can be inappropriate, like during a life-threatening crisis.
Sometimes, it all just feels heavy. The responsibilities we have. The tragic and frightening news we see, like what’s going on in Israel. Health scares. Work overload.
It’s even possible to get into a funk without any specific thing you can point to in your life.
Since I was home alone, I hopped into the shower and put on some music. I had the best little private concert all by myself. When I got out, hair dripping, my mood was much lighter.
A friend of mine was getting ready for a big presentation recently. She told me that she was listening to “Eye of the Tiger” to get herself pumped up…and it worked!
How does music work its magic?
Places like Harvard and Johns Hopkins have studied and have been using music to support healing for many years. While we don’t know exactly HOW music activates healing, we can show that it does. Below are some of the findings…
#1: MOOD IMPROVEMENT. Music releases dopamine in the brain (which is the feel good hormone)
#2: HEALING THE BODY. Music has been shown to have a healing effect on the body: lowering blood pressure, reducing heart rate and reducing inflammation.
#3: COGNITIVE FUNCTION. Music has been shown to improve cognitive functioning in patients with dementia. It’s been shown to improve memory, attention and reduce agitation.
#4: PAIN REDUCTION. When patients listen to calming music before surgery, studies have shown that they are less anxious and need fewer pain medications.
One last thing. The TYPE of music matters. The music that is healing is uplifting. So, unless you want to bring on a more depressed mood, I wouldn’t suggest sad lost love songs.
What about you? What song inspires and lifts you up? What is your go-to when you need a boost?
You deserve the joy and peace you desire! I’m cheering you on!