The Healing Power of Music

I'm sure we've all been moved by a piece of music at some stage in life. I definitely have. For me, music can affect my mood instantly. Music can spark a memory or feeling from the past, elevate my mood into a joyful experience in the present, or calm me after a hectic day.

American musician Billy Joel once said.

“I think music in itself is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves music.”

The deep connection we have with music has led to numerous studies highlighting the benefit it can play in our mental health. Researchers from McGill University in Canada found that listening to music increases the mood-enhancing chemical dopamine which is produced in the brain. This discovery could make music a feasible form of treatment for depression.

Further scientific and psychological studies have shown that music can lift our mood, combat depression, improve blood flow in ways similar to statins, lower levels of stress-related hormones such as cortisol, and ease pain. There you have it, music really has the power to heal.