Music has been an expression of human culture since prehistoric times. Consequently, it will come as no surprise to know that it has a special connection with the brain, as it enables it to lift morale and change moods. Use it to your advantage by discovering which songs are most effective to combat bad moments, choosing the right music for the various moments of the day and experimenting with active listening. With a little effort you can use music to improve your mood.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Music to Combat Sadness
Step 1. Find the rhythm that's right for you
When you listen to music, your heart tries to get in tune with the rhythm. The more pressing it is, the more the nervous system is stimulated. Experiment with different rhythms until you find one that makes you feel good (without getting too excited or anxious). Here are some songs to try:
- Giving Gorillaz;
- Kids of MGMT;
- Sleepyhead by Passion Pit.
Step 2. Listen to the tone
The tone of the music also has a profound effect on the body's response. In general, music in a major key conveys positive emotions, while a music in a minor key conveys sadness. If you listen to cheerful music, you will be more likely to feel better. However, there are people who feel happy even after listening to sad music. Here are some songs that have a good tone:
- Lady Gaga's Born This Way;
- Send Me on My Way by Rusted Root;
- Nothing to Worry About by Peter Bjorn and John.
Step 3. Listen to music that conveys a positive message
Just like with rhythm and tone, lyrics can also affect emotions. Try listening to music with a motivating message or a positive story. Given the close link between music and mood, a message of hope can help shape the course of the day. Try to listen to a cheerful song as soon as you get up in the morning to get ready for the day on the right foot. Here are some pieces that have a positive message:
- Katy Perry's Roar;
- Survivor's Eye of the Tiger;
- Pursuit of Happiness by Kid Cudi.
Step 4. Listen to some music you already like
Listening to music you know and enjoy has been shown to release dopamine in the brain, generating a rush of positive emotions. It can also lower your heart rate, relieve anxiety and pain. If in doubt, listen to your favorite songs to give you the boost.
This applies both to specific songs you already like, and to the artists and genres you know you like
Step 5. Try listening for binaural beats
Binaural Tone Technology is a type of music that alternates different sounds to create new tones. Some people have found that it can help calm anxiety and even reduce pain.
When you feel anxious or stressed, try listening to some binaural beats and see if they help you
Step 6. Keep a playlist handy
Try creating one that will cheer you up. Choose upbeat songs that have a good rhythm, good tone, and good message. Make sure you also select some of your favorites and listen to them whenever you need to recharge.
Method 2 of 3: Choose the Right Music for the Different Moments of the Day
Step 1. Listen to some "powerful" music early in the morning
At the start of the day, you need to feel confident and confident to get going. According to some scientists, listening to music characterized by strong bass (such as rock or hip hop) can accentuate one's feeling of power and self-worth, even improve the ability to process complex thoughts. Try listening to this type of music when you wake up.
- Consider rock artists like Led Zeppelin, Nirvana or Creedence Clearwater Revival;
- Consider hip hop artists like Atmosphere, Aesop Rock, or A Tribe Called Quest.
Step 2. Stimulate your brain while you are at work
Music you already know can make you feel good, but at the same time it can also keep you from concentrating as much as possible. If you need to get your mood up at work, try listening to something unusual for your taste. This can stimulate the brain and promote productivity.
- Try listening to an artist you know little;
- Consider Björk, Beck or Belle and Sebastian.
Step 3. Listen to pop music when you work out
It can help control fatigue and encourage you to hold on. Pop is great for physical activity because it has a cheerful and steady rhythm to follow. Try listening to it when you are in the gym. Here are some effective suggestions:
- Britney Spears' Toxic;
- Get Lucky by Daft Punk;
- Rihanna's S&M.
Step 4. When you are sad, listen to some sad music
It will seem counterproductive, but it can be effective in raising morale. If you are really down, sad music can help you process your emotions and find your smile again.
- Consider Radiohead, especially albums like In Rainbows and OK Computer.
- When you feel down, listen to any song by Adele.
Step 5. Use music to help you sleep
According to some studies, listening to calming music is effective for fighting insomnia, lengthening REM sleep and promoting rest. Classical music is the best in this regard. Try listening to it while you get ready for bed or maybe leave the stereo on all night. Here are some excellent compositions in this regard:
- Nocturne Number 2 by Frédéric Chopin;
- Adagio for strings by Samuel Barber;
- The planets of Gustav Holst.
Method 3 of 3: Active Listening
Step 1. Dance while listening to music
If you want to make the most of the listening experience, just jump! Music is enough to energize by itself, but when combined with a rhythmic movement it is much more effective for feeling better (and keeping fit at the same time).
Step 2. Sing too
Singing is another effective way to make the most of listening. It has been shown to instantly improve mood while strengthening the immune system. Sing in the shower, in the car, or for other people. You will benefit from it in any case and you will feel better.
Step 3. Play an instrument
If you want to create a positive atmosphere, try playing your music. Playing an instrument (at any age) fights stress and stimulates positive emotions. Plus, it can help you enjoy better brain health and extend your life!
- Are there any instruments you've always dreamed of playing?
- Do you have tools at your disposal at home?
- Consider a simple instrument, like the recorder, or start with a slightly more complex one, like the guitar or piano.
Step 4. Watch a live performance
If you want to cheer up with music, why not listen to it live? Attending a concert is a proven way to recharge. Plus, it burns calories, is a great excuse to get out of the house, and offers great socializing opportunities.
