The Influence of Music on Mind and Body
Music has a very persuasive control over people. It can increase the rate in which we learn things. Music can improve our daily lives and our well-being. It can affect our blood pressure and body organs. Music is a very powerful entity that can drive people's emotions. Our body experiences something similar to a chain reaction when listening to music therefore; the psychological relationship between music and the mind is very powerful.
The auditory cortex in the temporal lobe of the brain connects directly or indirectly to other major nerves of the body. These connections include the nerves in the back muscles, larynx, lungs, heart, and the abdominal organs, including the entire digestive tract. It is because of these major connections to the auditory nerves that music can somehow affect all these vital organs. Music can activate the limbic system of the brain that is important in producing pleasurable effects. Listening to uplifting music activates areas in the limbic system that releases endorphin. The limbic system has a large number of receptors that are highly sensitive to the presence of this endorphin; this release of endorphin as well as the pleasurable effects of the music could be the reason for liking and disliking certain music.
Music affects our feelings and emotions, so if emotions are affected, then our body will more than likely be affected. Our mental and emotional states are influenced by music, which can alter the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system modulates almost every aspect of immune function; therefore, because of its effect on our immune system, music is used as therapy for a variety of illnesses. The use of music in relaxation therapy can significantly decrease heart rate, skin temperature and muscle activity.
Depending on the type of music you listen to, different effects will take place. Light, easy-paced music tends to help most people concentrate for a longer period; it also improves their ability to memorize
The auditory cortex in the temporal lobe of the brain connects directly or indirectly to other major nerves of the body. These connections include the nerves in the back muscles, larynx, lungs, heart, and the abdominal organs, including the entire digestive tract. It is because of these major connections to the auditory nerves that music can somehow affect all these vital organs. Music can activate the limbic system of the brain that is important in producing pleasurable effects. Listening to uplifting music activates areas in the limbic system that releases endorphin. The limbic system has a large number of receptors that are highly sensitive to the presence of this endorphin; this release of endorphin as well as the pleasurable effects of the music could be the reason for liking and disliking certain music.
Music affects our feelings and emotions, so if emotions are affected, then our body will more than likely be affected. Our mental and emotional states are influenced by music, which can alter the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system modulates almost every aspect of immune function; therefore, because of its effect on our immune system, music is used as therapy for a variety of illnesses. The use of music in relaxation therapy can significantly decrease heart rate, skin temperature and muscle activity.
Depending on the type of music you listen to, different effects will take place. Light, easy-paced music tends to help most people concentrate for a longer period; it also improves their ability to memorize