Did you know that music can affect the chemistry of our brains? A recent study has found that listening to music releases the “feel-good” chemical dopamine. Almost everyone agrees that music can be fun, transcendent, enjoyable, even healing. Science is still exploring its effects on our psyche. Whether it’s symphonies, hip-hop, or rap that you’re listening to, any of those radically different sounds can change your mood.
The power of music
Research has shown that many adults use music to ease depression or general bad moods. Listening to music can also be a communal experience. It unites people through their shared enjoyment of a particular song or singer.
Music has also been used to treat veterans suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain disorders. Singing especially helps reconnect the pathways that had been damaged in the brain.
Listening to a mournful melody helps validate, and alleviate, sadness or anxiety. The pain and joy expressed within music makes us feel less alone. When we feel our emotions being mirrored, we automatically feel more connected to the world at large.
What I’ve learned from being a piano teacher
In my years as a piano teacher, I began to appreciate the healing qualities inherently found in the piano, and in music at large. A student cultivates emotional intelligence and creativity as they learn to use musical notes to produce their own special sound.
Teaching the piano has also been constructive in forming my approach as a therapist. I strive to meet every client where they are and help formulate a path to healing that suits their unique needs. I find it to be similar to guiding a music student in their unique exploration of self–expression through music.
In my practice, I encourage utilizing mindfulness as a coping and healing tool. Playing the piano, or any other musical instrument, is an activity that requires the player to be in the moment. Music and our daily lives are both better performed when we pay attention to detail, and remain patient and kind with ourselves.
Reach out today
For therapy in Overland Park that is evidence-based, engaging, and compassionate, give me a call or fill out the contact form and click Send.