In such a stressful world where mental health challenges are on the rise, it's comforting to know that there is a timeless, inexpensive remedy that can help soothe the soul, mend a broken heart, and improve both physical and emotional well-being—to are you. That the medicine is music. As a psychologist, I have seen firsthand the changes that music can make in the lives of my patients. In times of deep despair or moments of anxiety or depression, music and its impact on the body has had the power to heal in ways that words alone cannot.
So what is it about music that makes it such a powerful healing tool? Psychologically, music has the ability to transcend the rational mind and access deeper layers of consciousness. According to a study in Finland, when we listen or play music, we don't just get the sound from our ears. our whole brain is involved. The study showed that music recruits the motor areas of the brain, which make our toes tap and our bodies sway. it lights up the emotional center of the brain, which lifts our mood and lowers our stress levels. and activates the part of the brain that allows the mind to wander, daydream and be creative.
When we're depressed, sad, or hurt, it can be hard to get excited about anything. And yet, when we play some music, the sound lights up the “pleasure center,” that deep part of the brain that releases dopamine, the “feel-good” hormone. One particularly fascinating study noted that simply anticipating or remembering a particular song can increase dopamine levels. And even after listening to the song, these levels can remain elevated for up to fifteen minutes after the music ends. This means that we will continue to feel happy longer.
When we suffer from anxiety, fear or panic attacks, listening to music can help calm our nervous system and reduce levels of stress hormones such as cortisol. It has also been found to lower blood pressure, improve sleep, and reduce physical as well as emotional pain by triggering the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. Additionally, research suggests that playing music in the background while doing another activity can improve our ability to focus and problem-solve, especially for those with ADHD. Think of music as a tool for ultimate self-care — moments of compassion that allow for self-reflection and reconnection.
Music improves our memory
Music has the unique ability to evoke specific thoughts, feelings and memories, serving as a bridge between past and present. Anyone who has ever suffered a breakup or lost a loved one will recognize the power of accessing those long-forgotten moments. Listening to a particular song can transport us back to that time and place and allow us to feel it all over again. For people struggling with trauma or PTSD, certain songs can trigger powerful thoughts and feelings, which can provide an opportunity for clearing and healing.
Music connects us
What I love most about music is its profound impact and ability to foster connection and community. Playing music together, dancing, sharing a playlist with friends, or even attending a concert surrounded by complete strangers makes us feel part of something bigger than ourselves. In a world of so much isolation and loneliness, music serves as a unifying force that brings us together across generations, cultures, ideologies and backgrounds, promoting trust and a sense of belonging.
Curating your playlist
Below, you'll find a 20-track Latin music playlist that I felt called to share. Now it's your turn — I encourage you to take your own musical journey. Maybe there are songs that speak to something you're going through or thinking about right now. Or songs that trigger a specific memory that makes you smile. Have fun with it and share with your friends if you like it.
Edith Shiro, PsyD, is a Venezuelan clinical psychologist in private practice in Miami and author of The Unexpected Gift of Trauma, available now. She is on the board of the World Happiness Foundation and was awarded the 2023 Health Innovation Award for Outstanding Service in Health Care and 2018 Hispanic Women of Distinction. Also, the 2022 Latino Book Award. Learn more at dredithshiro.com
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/latin/healing-power-of-music-mental-health-awareness-month-1235672015/