The Power Of Music: Its Health Benefits (I)

American musician Billy Joel once said " I think music in itself is healing.  No matter what culture we 're from , everyone loves music . " Most of us would wholeheartedly
agree with this statement , and it is this universal bond with music that has led researchers across the globe to investigate
its therapeutic potential .

Barbara Else, senior advisor of policy and research at the American Music Therapy
Association told Medical News Today  that "the elements of music - rhythm, melody, etc. - are echoed in our physiology , functioning and being."

• Mental Health: Numerous studies have shown music can benefit our mental health. A 2011 study by researchers from McGill University in Canada found that listening to music increases the amount of dopamine produced in the brain - a mood-enhancing chemical, making it a feasible treatment for depression.

• Reduces Pain and Anxiety: Bob Marley once sang: "One good thing about music, when it hits you feel no pain." According to some studies, this statement may ring true. 

    In March 2014, researchers from     Denmark found music may be beneficial for patients with fibromyalgia - a disorder that causes muscle and joint pain and fatigue. Listening to calm, relaxing, self-chosen music "reduced pain and increased functional mobility significantly" among 22 patientsbwith fibromyalgia , according to the investigators.

• Relieves Stress: When feeling stressed, you may find listening to your favorite music makes you feel better - and there are numerous studies that suport this effect. 

 A study reported by MNT last month, for example, found that infants remained calmer for longer when they were played music rather than spoken to - even when speech involved baby talk.

Honor Whiteman

Source: medicalnewstoday.com