Want to Improve Your Health? Try Music!

By Donna Stark

Have you ever been transported back to a happy time in your life simply because a certain song came on the radio? Do you catch yourself near tears when you hear the words that a loved one used to sing to you? Music certainly has a way of touching our deepest emotions, doesn't it? But did you know that it can benefit a person's physical and mental health too? When was the last time you turned up your favorite tunes and really sat back to listen? You may want to give that a try today! Here's why.

Better Concentration

If you want to study better and improve your concentration skills, try listening to some music from the past. Baroque and classical music have been shown to improve your focus and increase your brain's capability to recall information and memorize facts. Choose songs that are soft and gentle to get the most benefit.

Reduces Stress

Listening to your favorite music is a great way to decrease the levels of cortisol in your body. Cortisol is your body's stress hormone and since chronic stress is linked to many of our sleep issues, illnesses, and disease, it's important to reduce as much of it as possible. The next time you are having a particularly stressful day, go ahead and turn on the radio! You may be surprised how quickly things calm down.

Encourages Creativity

Listening to something new can activate your mind in productive and interesting ways. Music can improve moods, and when you are happier, you are more likely to think creatively, become more engaged, and experience a boost in your motivation. Whether you are just listening or are playing an instrument, music can make all the difference in the world.

Enhances Workouts

Enjoying your favorite tunes while exercising may make your workouts more effective. Music tends to increase our energy and improve our moods. It's also a great distraction from the things we may not completely enjoy. In other words, if you always find yourself bored to tears while on the treadmill, try listening to some of your favorite songs. You may be able to get in a 30-minute run without any complaints!

Music to the Rescue

It doesn't matter what your age is, music can improve the quality of your life in many ways. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, boost cognitive function, enhance your mood, improve your workouts, and even help you sleep better. Essentially, you are looking at a happier and healthier life when you add it to your days. So go ahead ... turn up that volume!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Temecula, Calif.