How Music Plays A Role In Mental Health

Listening To Music And Mental Health

Feeling elevated levels of stress? Or, lethargic and burnout? Drawing awareness towards how you’re feeling moment to moment is a vital skill to help ease sensations of discomfort. Identifying whatever arises mentally and emotionally in the present moment aids in your ability to support yourself and respond instead of react.

If you notice you’re stressed, anxious, tired, or drained, neuroscience says that listening to music can be a powerful remedy for various emotional states. Music and happiness are ultimately linked, impacting how your brain functions. In 2020, Inc. came out with an interesting article identifying the correlation of neuroscience and happy songs. It is said that relaxing music that plays at about 60 beats per minute has a calming effect on the nervous system, while tunes that are written in a major key at about 140-150 beats per minute boost happiness.

Singing And Mental Health

Beyond listening to music as a way to support your mental health, singing also plays a part in mood enhancement. According to a Healthline article on the benefits of singing, when you sing in a place that doesn’t make you feel anxious, cortisol levels drop, which eases stress.

Furthermore, a study out of the UK found that after participating in singing workshops the study group (who had existing mental health conditions) reported enhanced mood, mental health, and a feeling of belonging.

Why does the act of singing have this impact? According to MT-BC music therapist, Lisa Townsend, “Singing is a whole-body experience, creating opportunities for intentional, deep breaths and triggering the release of endorphins and dopamine, giving you opportunities for increased awareness in your body and mind.” In my personal perspective, noting the power that intentional breath and breath initiatives movement has on our nervous system, this makes total sense.

Watching A Musical Performance And Mental Health

Watching someone perform also has an impact on your mental well-being. When you’re watching something entertaining that allows your mind to relax and allows you to let go of your daily stressors, endorphins are released bringing on a dose of happiness. Entertainment nurtures creativity and helps refuel your energy tank. When you are fully engaged with the performance, you are present in the moment. You’re not thinking about the past or worrying about the future. The practice of being present can help lessen depression and anxiety. Watching a musician or band perform brings you into the present moment.

The Moral Of The Story… Music Is Good For Your Mental Health

Whether you’re listening to music, singing out loud, or watching a concert for entertainment we encourage you to make music a part of your day, your week, and your life. To help with this, check out Jazz Mafia’s music concert breaks in our virtual wellness break program. Each Tuesday we’re broadcasting 15-minute concert breaks featuring this 20-year music collective of top performers. Contact us to learn how you can share these breaks with your team!

Join us for Tuesday concert music breaks in your workday, featuring our premier musical partners Jazz Mafia.