Neurological studies on the effects of music on the brain indicate that we are biologically programmed to feel emotions when we hear a melody. For example, five-month-old babies react vividly to upbeat songs, and by ten months they already know how to recognize and respond appropriately to sad tracks.
The psychological states induced by music only intensify as we grow older. Upbeat music (usually at a fast tempo and in a major key) can make a person breathe faster, which is a physiological sign of happiness and excitement.
Similarly, sad music, which tends to be in a minor key, causes the heart rate to slow down and can raise blood pressure. It may not sound very positive, but probably everyone is familiar with the cleansing power of tears. Music helps release feelings that are hidden deep inside and relieves emotional distress, creating a cathartic effect.
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Needless to say, music and singing have long been used in medicine to prevent a number of diseases, for therapy, pain relief, and improving the well-being of patients. Music strengthens the immune system of patients after surgeries, reduces stress levels in pregnant women, and stabilizes blood pressure and heart rate in cardiac patients.
Researchers at California State University found that hospitalized children felt happier during music therapy, where they could play with maracas and bells, compared to regular play with toys and puzzles.
However, you don’t have to be sick to boost the level of happiness that music and singing bring. Karaoke can be the most powerful trigger of joy because it not only relieves stress and increases endorphin levels, but it also creates new social connections and strengthens old ones. When you enter a room with people who like the same things you do, you can make new friends, meet interesting people, share the common happiness of music, and be open with everyone.
Nevertheless, it is worth noting that too much music can be an overwhelming pleasure. Because music triggers the reward system in our brains (producing dopamine), it can become an addiction that is hard to satisfy. From time to time, hide the microphones from the karaoke system in the drawer, turn off the player on your smartphone, and enjoy the silence. Then your favorite song will remain just as amazing and will once again evoke real, vivid emotions.
