How Does Music Relax Stress?

How Does Music Relax Stress?

By Libby L. Britt, eHow Contributor

http://www.ehow.com/how-does_5187347_music-relax-stress_.html

Physical Effects

The ancient Greeks believed music could heal and used it to treat certain physical ailments. As it turns out they were on to something. The rhythm, or beat, of music does in fact have an immediate effect on the body. As you listen to music your heart rate decreases and sets in motion the relaxation process, which includes less tension in the muscles, clearer thoughts and slower breathing. Immediately, music can create an overall calming effect that slows bodies and minds down. While professionals don't know exactly how music has this effect, it is no mistake that it does. It has been proven that over time, relaxing music reduces both blood pressure and anxiety levels.

Emotional Effects

Music causes the hormone serotonin to accelerate. This "feel-good" chemical helps promote happiness and keeps moods in check while assisting with anxiety levels. Since low serotonin levels can lead to depression, music can help keep you in good spirits with positive emotions. Some say music has this effect because musical rhythm emulates the beating sound we heard in our mother's womb, which later in life relates us back to that comforting and safe environment.

Other Factors

While even upbeat music can calm its biggest fans, the music with the most calming capability is usually slower-tempo melodies and those with repetitive notes and sounds (jazz, classical). However, every type of music will have a different effect on every person, so what relaxes one might cause another to energize. A good way to test if a particular song or type of music is relaxing to you is to check your pulse. If your pulse quickens to a certain beat, then the music is actually more exciting than relaxing. If your pulse and breathing slow down, then you have found the music that will calm you down and help your body relax.


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so, who said that music is not good for your health? choose a good music that suit to you and think about it~ ^_^