Listening to music is soothing, and it has a unique link to our emotions, so can be an extremely effective stress management tool. Music can have a tremendously relaxing effect on our minds and bodies, especially slow, quiet classical music. This type of music can have a beneficial effect on our physiological functions, slowing the pulse and heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing the levels of stress hormones.
Musical preference varies widely between individuals, so only you can decide what you like and what is suitable for each mood. But even if you don’t usually listen to classical music it may be worth giving it a try when selecting the most calming music.
When people are very stressed, there is a tendency to avoid actively listening to music. Perhaps it feels like a waste of time, not helping to achieve anything. But as we know, productivity increases when stress is reduced, so this is another area where you can gain vast rewards. It just takes a small effort to begin with.
Ways to listen to music in daily routine:
- When getting ready in the morning – You can wake yourself up with music and start your day feeling great. By selecting the right music, you can set the tone for a lower-stress day.
- During a commute – Put an end to road rage by playing your favourite music in the car.
- Cooking – If you put on some smooth jazz or a similar genre of music that you enjoy, cooking becomes a fun activity rather than a chore.
- While eating – Music can also be a helper as you’re eating your meal. Soothing music can trigger the relaxation response, which can lower cortisol levels, making it easier to digest food.
- Cleaning – If you throw on some energetic music (hip-hop or pop, for example) you can raise your energy level and have fun while you’re cleaning.
- Before bed – Playing music before sleeping is one way to counteract the effects of stress by taking your mind off what’s stressing you. Music can help slow down your breathing and soothing your mind
Source: Verywell Mind
