Using Music for Brain Function

Research shows that music and your mind have a powerful connection. The University of Central Florida says music enhances these areas:

• Amygdala
• Broca's area
• Cerebellum
• Corpus callosum
• Frontal lobe
• Hippocampus
• Hypothalamus
• Nucleus accumbens
• Occipital lobe
• Putamen
• Temporal lobe
• Wernicke's area

With a list so long, it's no wonder Johns Hopkins claims listening to or playing music gives the brain a workout the way you'd exercise your body at the gym. Listening alone can reduce anxiety, blood pressure and pain—but can also improve our sleep, mood and memories.

When it comes to learning new information, the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Researchers report music is a great motivational tool. They noted people were more inclined to learn more if they thought they could listen to music afterward as a reward.

Music is also beneficial for Alzheimer's patients. While nothing is a complete cure-all for the condition, a 2017 study uncovered connections between music and a reduction in cognitive decline. Patients better-remembered life events, displayed improved psychomotor speed and illustrated more overall cognition after listening to music.

The AARP and several scientific journals report that music therapy also reduces anxiety and depression. Stroke patients reported less stress after one-hour music sessions, according to a 2019 issue of the Rehabilitation Nursing Journal. Researchers say music therapy is often a gateway for stroke victims to regain their speech by singing first.

So, maybe it's time to play your favorite song again!

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