Good morning, everyone!
Today I want to talk about something we all enjoy: music. Music has a powerful impact on our brains, whether it's a song we hum while studying or a melody that makes us feel better after a long day. But have you ever wondered why it affects us this way?
When we listen to music we enjoy, our brain produces dopamine, a chemical found in neurons that makes us happy and motivated. According to a study conducted by McGill University in Canada, listening to favourite songs can enhance dopamine levels by up to 9%, which explains why just a few seconds of music can immediately improve our mood.
Music also enhances memory and concentration. It engages both the left and right sides of the brain, increasing creativity and helping us recall information more effectively. That’s why songs from years ago stay in our minds, while ordinary details are often forgotten.
Music has therapeutic benefits in addition to its ability to provide joy and recall memories. Music therapy is used in hospitals to decrease stress, calm patients, and perhaps help them recover from disease. It can decrease our pulse rate, reduce anxiety, and foster a sense of connectedness with ourselves and others.
During World War II, the singer Dame Vera Lynn released the song” We’ll Meet Again”. It became an anthem for soldiers going off to fight and their families waiting at home. The simple melody and lyrics gave courage and comfort, reminding everyone that even in fear and separation, hope could survive.
So next time you listen to your favourite song, remember that it’s more than just entertainment. It’s science, it’s therapy, and it’s a reminder of how powerful sound can be for our minds and hearts.
Thank you.