Most people listen to Music for its entertainment value. However, music is a more powerful tool that can affect how our brains function.

Some people say music is like a drug. It has the ability to affect our mood, emotions, thoughts and memories which altogether alters our mental state.

Due to its rhythmic and repetitive aspects, music engages parts of our brain and changes our moods.

Understanding the effects music has on us can go a long way in effectively using music for help. Here are some of its benefits:

Reduces Stress

We all enjoy relaxing to some music and switching off our minds at the end of a long stressful day. Playing music can help promote relaxation of the mind and body.

Certain genres of music can put us in a calm and more peaceful state. Soft and slow music for instance, induces calm stimulation for the brain.

Whether you’re listening to it actively or in the background, soft music can definitely help you wash away some stress.

Helps in Relaxation

We all enjoy relaxing to some music and switching off our minds at the end of a long stressful day. Playing music can help you relax and ease tension in the mind and body.

If you’re looking to chill out, it’s best you avoid loud and fast paced songs like metal rock to maintain an ambient atmosphere.

Soft music is better since it has a slow tempo and gradual chord progression that tend to be relaxing.

Listening to soft music can also help you drift into sleep as it helps slow your breathing and calms you.

Lifts Your Spirits

Music with bright tones and lyrics can elevate your mood and lift your spirits. If you’re feeling low and lack motivation to do tasks, try playing an upbeat song as loud as you can to inspire some action.

Some people prefer to blast music and dance along to it while carrying out their daily duties like cleaning.

Fast pace music pumps you up and gets your body moving. Ambient and classical music also have mood-boosting benefits.

To effectively change your mood, start with a song that matches your current mood. Then, slowly change to a more calm and positive state.

Improves Focus

Certain genres of music are known to boost focus and can help you perform everyday activities much more efficiently.

While others see music as a distraction, some people prefer to work or study with music playing in the background.

Upbeat music can help with mental performance including speed and memory.

It is better to pick instrumentals or neutral tracks rather than songs with complex lyrics which might end up being distracting.

Reduces Anxiety and Depression

Listening to positive music for a prolonged period of time can have an impact on your general happiness and wellbeing.

Music therapy has been found to be a safe and effective way of treating depression and anxiety. The same way it can have an impact on your mood, music also affects your overall mental health.

If you’re feeling unhappy, try and listen to some music to help relieve those depressive feelings. For a start, try choosing songs that evoke positive memories and stimulate good vibes.