Music and mental health go hand in hand. It’s a great way to express emotions and find healing. Whether it’s boosting your mood, easing stress, or helping you feel connected, music can make a difference when dealing with mental health challenges and improving overall mental well-being.
How Music Improves Mental Health
Music Connects Us
Researchers think one of the most important functions of music is creating a feeling of cohesion and social connection. Music has been a way to help people connect and feel a sense of community in various ways, such as:
National anthems connecting crowds at sporting events
Protest songs stirring a sense of purpose during marches
Hymns building spiritual connection in a house of worship
Love songs help potential partners bond in the early stages of dating
Lullabies enable parents and children to develop secure relationships
Memory Improvement
Music can have a positive impact on your ability to memorize. In a 2014 study, researchers gave people tasks that required them to read and recall short lists of words. Those listening to classical music outperformed those who worked silently or with white noise. The Mayo Clinic points out that while music doesn’t reverse memory loss experienced in people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, music has been found to slow cognitive decline!
Lowers Feelings of Anxiety
There’s A LOT of evidence that listening to music can help calm you when you feel anxious. This 2019 study shows that people in rehab after a stroke are more relaxed after listening to relaxing music for at least an hour. Another study measured several stress indicators and concluded that while listening to music BEFORE a stressful event doesn’t reduce anxiety, listening to relaxing music AFTER a stressful event can help your nervous system recover faster.
Alleviates Symptoms of Depression
A 2017 review concluded that listening to music, mainly classical combined with jazz, had a positive effect on depression symptoms, primarily when certified music therapists conducted several listening sessions. Not a fan of jazz or classical music? Consider joining a group percussion session instead. The same research review discovered that drum circles offer significant benefits, particularly for individuals coping with depression.
Adding Music to Your Routine
You can easily add music to your current routine by:
Create a playlist of songs that uplift your mood, calm you down, or resonate with your emotions.
Set aside dedicated time each day to listen to music during your morning routine, during a break, or before bed.
Incorporate music into activities such as journaling, exercising, and practicing mindfulness.
Actively participate in music by learning to play an instrument or singing.
Seek music therapy or explore apps and online resources offering guided musical experiences.
Incorporate relaxing music before bedtime to relax your nerves.
Attend Live Performances at Maxan Jazz
Attending live music events can also be a great way to enjoy live performances and feel the communal energy! Maxan Jazz offers live music and deliciously fresh sushi five nights a week, so reserve a table and boost your mental well-being by immersing yourself in our relaxing, cozy environment!
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