Ever felt “chills” from listening to music?
It is much more than just a fleeting sensation. Whether it is your favorite song, an iconic beat drop, or that unforgettable theme, music’s impact is rooted in complex neurochemistry.
From your emotional state of mind to your cognitive function, music has all sorts of remarkable effects on the brain and its chemistry. Let’s dive into the psychology of music.
Studies have shown that listening to music you enjoy releases a chemical known as dopamine, which plays a key role in activating a feel-good state. This neurotransmitter is associated with the reward center of your brain. In fact, if you have ever felt “chills” from listening to a certain song, this is actually just a rush of dopamine transmission!
But that’s not all—accompanying dopamine is another wave of chemicals known as endorphins. These work to reduce pain, whether physical or emotional. Research has shown that music intervention for those hospitalized has fostered the release of endorphins that lower blood pressure and heart rate. Now imagine what music can do for you on a daily basis!
Even more, when playing an instrument, tons of acetylcholine is released! This is the chemical messenger in your mind that controls both your muscle movement and learning. Making music engages your entire brain and promotes fine and gross motor development. Learning an instrument is a skill that not only exercises your brain but also enhances your day-to-day mental functioning.
The psychology of music is simply fascinating—it has all kinds of benefits that extend beyond notes on a page! Whether you are a beginner or an expert, music nonetheless holds such a transformative power in boosting your mood.
There is no better time to elevate your mind and body through music—you can even start today!
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Hi, I’m Devon! I play the flute and enjoy writing music in my free time.