Reducing Stress Through Music

If you’re finding yourself stressed, it might be time to try some new relaxation techniques.  For instance, music can be very effective for relaxing and managing stress. Music can have a remarkable effect on your body and state of mind. Faster-paced music can help with concentration and increase alertness while upbeat music can make you feel more optimistic and positive. Slower music can help you relax your muscles and quiet your thoughts while releasing the stress of the day.

• In a study done by PLoS One, researchers found that 30 women recovered from stressful situations faster when they had listened to music than those who had not.
• This could be an indicator that music might be a successful coping mechanism for stressful situations.

According to researchers at Stanford University and University of Nevada Reno, music around 60 beats per minute can cause the brain to synchronize with the beat causing alpha brain waves. These alpha brainwaves are present when we are relaxed and conscious. To induce sleep while listening to music:

• Allow about 45 minutes.
• Find a relaxing sleeping position.
• Listen to calm music.

Since we are rarely told the beats per minute in a song, how do you choose the music that is best music for relaxation? The answer is up to you.

• Search for music that you enjoy and find relaxing.
• Explore different genres of music to find which is most relaxing to you.
• Don’t force yourself to listen to music you find irritating. This can create tension, not reduce it.

It is important to remember that quieting your mind does not mean you will automatically feel sleepy. It just means your brain and body are relaxed. With your newly relaxed self, you can function at your best in many activities.

While we don’t know the full effect that music can have on the human body, we do know that it can have a positive impact. Since music can be easily accessed by most people, stress reduction music becomes a convenient and affordable relaxation tool. By regularly listening to relaxing music you might be better prepared for stressful situations in the future.