On the molecular level, research shows that listening to music improves our mental well-being and physical health. Enjoyment goes far beyond the present moment, as it directly influences the outcome of our hormones and cognitive functioning. While research has suggested that people who play instruments are smarter, there are also plenty of benefits for the music enthusiasts. ‘’When I’m bored or doing some school work I like to listen to music because it keeps me concentrating when I’m doing something,’’ Mave Digirolamo said. This might seem obvious, but the natural chemical reasoning is pretty incredible to think about. If you ever need an emotional boost, let it be known that it only takes 15 minutes of listening to your favorite tunes to get a natural high. This is because your brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter that leads to increased feelings of happiness, excitement, and joy, when you listen to music you like. Music has a direct effect on our hormones. If you listen to music you enjoy, it decreases levels of the hormone cortisol in your body, counteracting the effects of chronic stress. Stress causes 60% of all illnesses and diseases, so lower levels of stress mean high chances of overall well-being. One study even showed that a group of people playing various percussion instruments and singing had boost immune system compared to the people who were passively listening; while both groups’ health was positively affected by music, the group playing instruments and/or singing had better results.For maximum benefits on a stressful day, turn on some music and sing along.Don’t be shy to break out the air-guitar. ‘’When I’m bored and have nothing to do I like to play games and listen to my favorite music,’’ Digirolamo said.
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