"Music in Our Lives"
Post on: August 21, 2022
“Close your eyes, give me your hand, darling; Do you feel my heart beating; Do you understand?
Do you feel the same; Am I only dreaming; Is this burning an eternal flame?”
The year was 1988 and we were recruits going through the basic military training. We had just completed our combat drill and were drenched in our uniform. Feeling exhausted and melancholic, we awaited our next instructions from the corporal when we were serenaded with the song of the Bangles from the nearby canteen. The music so melodiously lifted our sagging spirits.
Instantly, our moods were elevated. Thanks to the music which got us in touch with our feelings with a tinge of nostalgia. As my corporal barked his next command, the task seemed a little lighter with the accompanying music.
I am sure such a scenario strikes a chord amongst our readers. We bring you some benefits of music that most of us can attest to:
Increases our stamina during a workout
When the going gets tough, the tough get going — music gives us the impetus to push ourselves during strenuous workout sessions. When I was training for my mountaineering expedition, I had music to make me go that extra mile. And what better song to give me the push than Rocky’s “Eye of the Tiger”!
Helps us sleep better
Researchers have postulated that listening to music enhances one’s sleep. I know of friends suffering from insomnia who have begun listening to classical music. It calms them to a better night’s sleep. Although studies may have been inconclusive, people vouch for this as a remedy.
Enhances Our Memory
This is another contentious issue. Some students claim that music improves their memory and thus serves as a great tool while studying. Others claim that it only serves as a distraction – albeit a pleasant one.
Studies have also found that students learning a new language made great strides when they practised singing new words and phrases compared to merely speaking it.
Makes us Happy
Music gives you the ‘feel good’ sensation. When we listen to music, a chemical in our brain, dopamine is released. Dopamine is known as the feel-good neurotransmitter. Amongst other benefits, it boosts one’s mood, motivation and attention.
Music as a Therapy
Music therapy is known to help participants address their physical, emotional and cognitive needs. The method includes listening to music, writing songs and playing an instrument. Music so effortlessly provides a distraction to our thought patterns and mind. It alters our mood which in turn can influence our behaviour for the better.
Eases Pain
It is often been told that recovering patients who listen to music tend to progress quickly. Pain is alleviated or lessened for patients who listen to music before, during or after surgery. Although the pain cannot be eradicated, the well-being and satisfaction are more apparent compared to those who did not listen to music as part of their care.
The iconic musician, Bob Marley sang, “One good thing about music, when it hits, you feel no pain.” The legend conveyed his message so aptly through his songs.
Music has the magic to teleport you into another realm – to your favourite memory. Music is inextricably woven into our lives and will continue to do so as we journey along.
#JollyGoodTimes #MusicInOurLives #ShajiThomasVarughese
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Jolly Good Times is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information on this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information…”
