Modern life has become increasingly busy and stressful. Between work, family, friends, and other commitments, many people are left feeling drained. The constant presence of screens in our daily lives has no doubt added to this stress. While many people turn to their TV’s for relaxation at the end of the day, there’s a better way to clear your head: playing an instrument.
Studies have shown music to be immensely helpful when it comes to lowering stress. Suzanne Hanser, chair of the Music Therapy Department at the Berklee College of Music, explains:
"Research shows that making music can lower blood pressure, decrease heart rate, reduce stress, and lessen anxiety and depression. There is also increasing evidence that making music enhances the immunological response, which enables us to fight viruses," Hanser said.
Here are just a few of the many ways music can help to combat stress:
1. Playing music pulls us away from the chaos of everyday life
pictured: hands playing guitar
It assists in mindful behavior by keeping us in the current moment. When learning or playing an instrument, we are forced to focus and stay in the present, rather than worrying about the future or past.
2. Playing an instrument also keeps us away from screens
pictured: woman looking at phone
Technology has found its way into virtually every part of life. From checking our phones in the morning when we wake up, to staring at a computer monitor at work, to binging Netflix at night. Heavy technology use has been shown to cause stress. Playing an instrument gives our eyes and brains a much needed break from screens.
3. Instrument playing synchronizes brain and body
pictured: three female dancers in sync
Music synchronizes our brains and bodies by incorporating music reading and physical performance.
4. An opportunity to socialize
pictured: two person’s hands together at the piano
Socializing is known to reduce stress. Getting together with friends or family to make music is a fun, rewarding, and relaxing social activity.
You don’t have to be a virtuoso to enjoy the stress-relief benefits of playing music. Simply strumming a guitar or playing a tune on the piano will give your brain the sort of relaxation it craves. Next time you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed, put down your smartphone and pick up an instrument. If you’d like to learn how, consider scheduling a trial lesson.