Approx. Reading Level: Grade 12/ SSS3
Blasting from the radio of a passing car, playing softly in the background of a restaurant or bellowing in a grand theatre during an orchestral performance; music comes in a variety of forms and is involved in many aspects of daily life. This sometimes simple fusion of notes and chords can provide much more than a source of entertainment. As a result of countless research and years of studies, it is proven that the practice and appreciation of music is beneficial for general health.
Through neurochemical testing, scientists found evidence that suggests music helps both physical and mental wellbeing. Of the numerous treatments administered, overall subjects experienced improvement in the four domains of stress, management of mood, ease of social bonding and immunity. A specific experiment conducted by Doctor Levitin of McGill University in Montreal, Quebec discovered that listening to and practicing music, strengthened the immune system and altered a variety of chemicals in the body. Data from the over 200 trials Levitin organized confirmed that being exposed to any type of melodic sound over a period of time, increased natural killer cell counts or the cells that attack germs and bacteria that swarm throughout the body. In addition, these tests showed an increase in the number of antibodies which have an important role in the immunity of the mucous system, also known as immunoglobulin A. Musicians and music appreciators alike will not only be physically healthier, they will happier. As shown again through Levitin’s study, the introduction of music to a stressed individual reduces the stress hormone or cortisol and produces dopamine, the chemical responsible for pleasure and reward. For this reason, this method of treatment, in conjunction with traditional practice can aid those afflicted with depression and other like disorders.
It also is established that music enhances cognitive performance. In another Levitin case study, two groups of students were administered identical exams. Each were placed in the same environment and issued the same allotment of time. One group, however, was given soft music to listen to while working. In the multiple evaluations held, the group provided with music were not only able to complete more questions, but were able to answer those questions with more accuracy. As the hippocampus and the frontal cortex are the two areas of the brain associate with memory respond to alliteration and rhythm, music can be used as a mnemonic device to unlock subconscious information.
Music’s ability to strengthen brainpower and improve memory supplements the research and treatment of many neurological disorders such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Music therapy or as described by the American Music Therapy Association as the clinical and evidence based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals is frequently used to treat individuals afflicted with memory difficulties or who have recently undergone a physical or emotional trauma. Meant to promote wellness, express feelings, enhance memory, improve communication and promote physical rehabilitation, an individual undergoing music therapy treatment will complete vocal and instrumental exercises designed for the specific patient. Music is the ultimate problem solver. What else can make you healthier, happier and smarter? So next time you hear a catchy song on the radio or sing along to your favorite tune, think of it as your daily dose of musical medicine.
Links:
Why Does Music Aid in Memorization
Words to Know:
Bellow = (verb) to make the loud deep hollow sound characteristic of a bull
Antibody = (noun) a substance produced by the body to fight disease
Supplement = (verb) to add something to (something); to serve as an addition
Rehabilitation = (noun) to bring (someone or something) back to a normal, healthy condition after an illness, injury, drug problem, etc.
