Music as Medicine

Music is gaining increased attention in scientific research and clinical practice because of its incredible positive effects on health.

Here are some highlights from the December 2023 NIH Conference Music as Medicine: The Science and Clinical Practice.

Put on some music YOU love and get ready for:

Neurological and Cognitive Effects
Engages emotional centers: Music stimulates reward and arousal networks in the brain. This is the same circuitry activated by activities like eating chocolate, taking opium, and having sex.
Default Mode Network (DMN) activation: Listening to or playing music can help facilitate entry into the DMN, the brain state associated with daydreaming, creativity, and spontaneous problem-solving.

Biochemical Changes Induced by Music
Certain beneficial biochemicals increase after music therapy:

Immunoglobulin A (IgA): A crucial antibody that strengthens immune defense in the mucosal system (helpful in fighting infections like COVID-19).
Melatonin: Regulates sleep-wake cycles, contributing to better sleep.
Norepinephrine/Epinephrine: Influences alertness and arousal.
Serotonin & Dopamine: Essential for mood regulation and emotional balance.

Meanwhile, stress-related hormones decrease:

Cortisol: A key stress hormone that was found to decline following exposure to meditative music.
Pain Reduction: A meta-analysis on perioperative pain revealed that music therapy reduces pain levels by an average of 1.4 points on a 10-point scale.
Anxiety Relief: In preoperative settings, music has been shown to be as effective as diazepam (Valium) in reducing anxiety(!!!)

Music is a powerful, drug-free, and renewable resource for enhancing physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Whether you are playing, composing, or simply listening, let music work its wonders on you!

Michelle