Music is everywhere. We can hear it while watching our favorite television programs or movies. It is often played in venues such as sporting events, the workplace, restaurants, shopping centers, or elevators. For most people, playing their own brand of music is a common form of entertainment. And, even when we tune out the background music around us, it can have a powerful effect on our mental and physical wellbeing.
Music is the one language that we can all understand. It transcends race, ethnicity, social status, gender, and age. So, what is the magical power of music and how does it link to our everyday lives?
Establishing an ambience.
Music sets the tone for whatever setting comes our way. Be it romantic music played during a candlelight dinner or a soothing lullaby for a crying baby, music creates the perfect mood for all occasions.
Enhancing our creativity.
Music triggers our imagination. It prompts us to create songs, concoct new dance steps, or play musical instruments in a way that expresses our unique talents.
Cultivating camaraderie.
Music creates a social bond among people who enjoy similar genres. Coming together for a happening at a concert, dance club, party, or other such venues, allows us to share our love for music in the fellowship of others.
Improving our memory.
Music’s repetitive nature of rhythm and melody helps to form brain patterns that enhance our memory. Despite an inherent tendency towards forgetting certain things, we can readily recall the lyrics and tunes to our favorite songs without much effort.
Reducing anxiety, stress, and anger.
Music provides welcome relief from a stressful, overly taxing day. Settling back to the sounds of relaxing spa music or diverting negative emotions with favorite songs keeps us balanced and in a more positive frame of mind.
Motivating us to exercise.
Listening to music when working out can enhance physical performance and stamina. It motivates us to get started and keep moving. During fast-paced exercise, playing upbeat music energizes and keeps us in sync. It can also delay fatigue.
Increasing enjoyment.
Let’s face it. Listening to music adds pleasure to our lives, especially when it touches our heart and soul.
Just think about it. How do you feel when you listen to your favorite songs? What memories are triggered when we tune into certain music?
Without a doubt, the right type of music can elicit different moods and memories in all of us.
Never underestimate the beauty of music. It will clear your head, heal your heart and lift your spirits.
Written by: Patricia K. Flanigan, Smart Strategies for Successful Living
Patricia K. Flanigan has worked in higher education for over 28 years. She holds a doctoral degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of La Verne as well as a M.A. in Latin American Studies and B.A. in Anthropology from the University of California, Los Angeles. Before retiring and moving to Idaho in 2015, she served as the dean of online education and learning resources at Saddleback College, a large community college in Southern California. She currently consults in higher education, writes for local magazines, and serves as an Affiliate Faculty member at Boise State University. She works in collaboration with LEARN (Lifelong Education and Aging Resource Network). Since February 2017, she has been the founding director and an author for Smart Strategies for Successful Living, a community-based website designed to promote quality aging. As an educator, her focus is to inspire others to live and age well.
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Source: Smart Strategies for Successful Living
