It’s often hard to find any form of tangible proof that the psychological benefits of music actually exist. Yet, music has long been found to help people relax, improve concentration, lower stress levels and even help them overcome various psychological challenges. So, are there really any psychological benefits of music out there?

What Do Research And Studies Suggest?

There have been many studies done over the years that show the impact of music on our psychology. It’s often been discovered that music has not just made its way into your heart; it has also won over your brain as well. A great example of this is a study that was performed at the University of Toledo. During a class, some students were given music to listen to and a video camera watched them while they played it. When the students who hadn’t previously learned to play the piano were asked to play a song that they had previously heard, they instantly picked it up and had an easier time understanding it.

Another psychological benefits of music theory is that it helps participants focus their minds, emotionally and physically. When participants listened to their favorite fast-paced song, their blood pressure increased and their heart rate increased as well. This same study then discovered that listening to a slow, mellow song led to participants experiencing a similar emotional reaction. In addition, music seemed to increase participants’ flexibility and their ability to stay focused.

Another of the psychological benefits of music theory is that it can be used as a tool to assist individuals with anxiety disorders. Several of the participants in the aforementioned study all had varying degrees of generalized anxiety disorder. Some even felt that it was almost a necessity. Even though they had positive thoughts and feelings about things, their minds constantly went back to their fearful thoughts and their anxiety increased as a result. However, when they listened to their favorite fast-paced song, they were able to let go of their negative thinking and anxiety and their moods changed for the better.

Another study on the subject that was conducted at the University of California – Los Angeles found that when participants were exposed to soft music, they performed better at a math test than when they were exposed to hard rock music. Interestingly enough, participants were not aware that the test actually tested their familiarity with the types of music that they were listening to. However, when they were asked afterward if they thought that they performed better on the math test because they listened to softer music, they immediately admitted that they did indeed think that their performance was improved.

Final Words

Music can and does have many wonderful psychological benefits. While it is important that people listen to both upbeat and sad songs, it is also crucial that they listen to only positive and uplifting songs. For our well-being, scientists recommend that we make a habit and try to only listen to songs that help us become happier or that help us achieve our personal goals and motivate us to do so. As a result, you could and should use music therapy to become happier and to achieve your personal goals. And you also should develop the love for music in your kids from a young age, by taking them to concerts and helping them learn how to play an instrument, helping them explore their talents and passions. Take your kids to music shops and introduce them to this beautiful world of art, as this might have the greatest impact on their future and their career!