8 health benefits of classical music

Classical music may not be as popular as jazz or everyone’s cup of tea, but one thing is for sure. She is not about to disappear. Not only is it soothing to the ears, but it also has many physical and mental health benefits. 

Before we dive into the magical effects of listening to classical music, what exactly is it? The Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries defines classical music as “music written in a Western musical tradition, usually using an established form”. Classical music is generally considered serious and of lasting value.” 

To define it more clearly, Classic FM defines it as “powerful combinations of instruments, melodies and harmonies that constitute the canon of Western music history.” She hypothesizes that this type of music can be called “classical” to honor artists like Mozart, Haydn, Bach and Beethoven during the classical period. The works of these artists greatly influenced the “classical” sound, with most forms of instrumental, chamber, orchestral and operatic music drawing inspiration from their compositions. 

You may not know the title, but we’re willing to bet you’ve heard one in your lifetime: JS Bach: Suite No. 1 in G major for unaccompanied cello, Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Johannes Brahms: Piano Quartet No. 1, Op. 25, and Frédéric Chopin: Nocturne in B flat minor, op. 9, no. 1. All of these pieces are considered icons of classical music that use the piano, violin, cello, organ and the combination of all these instruments. 

Now that we have covered the question, it is a question of convincing you to integrate classical music into your daily repertoire in order to promote better health and provide you with a quality life. Studies show that the melodies and structure of most classical music pieces help calm the listener’s brain. Here’s how listening to classical music can impact your daily life: 

1. Classical music helps a person relax. 

A 1993 study found that students who listened to Mozart before an exam performed significantly better than their peers who did not. It’s been called the Mozart effect or the ability of classical music to make someone smarter. In reality, classical music relaxes the mind to help it confidently face an upcoming task. It eliminates nervousness and puts the mind in a relaxed state. 

2. Classical music lowers blood pressure. 

According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, classical music can help lower blood pressure. The study participants were divided into two; one listened to Mozart and Strauss for 25 minutes and had lower blood pressure levels than the other group who did not listen to classical music. The researchers described the music as having no lyrics and only a few volume or rhythm changes. 

3. Classical music stimulates memory and creativity. 

By enhancing brain function, classical music naturally opens the brain to forming new ideas and new ways to process and store them. In other words, classical music stimulates the brain. 

4. Classical music helps reduce depression and anxiety. 

A 2010 study in Mexico involved a sample of 79 patients between the ages of 25 and 60 suffering from mild or moderate depression. Half the group listened to classical and baroque music for 50 minutes a day for eight weeks, while the other half underwent psychotherapy. According to Friedman’s test, the first half had fewer depressive symptoms than the second. Researchers recommend listening to classical music to help curb depression. 

5. Classical music improves concentration and productivity. 

A 2007 study from Stanford University School of Medicine found that the brain can more easily absorb and interpret new information during and after listening to classical music. It trains the brain to be attentive and to have better reasoning skills. A 2011 study of 41 boys with ADHD also showed the band performed better in class when listening to classical music. 

Another study also found that classical music can help you be more motivated. When motivation is high, productivity follows. 

6. Classical music improves sleep quality. 

It has been found that listening to 45 minutes of classical music before falling asleep not only promotes falling asleep, but also the quality of sleep during the rest period. 

7. Classical music improves mood. 

When listening to classical music, the hypothalamus releases a neurohormone called dopamine which activates pleasure in the brain. The brain releases it during pleasurable activities and listening to classical music is one of them. 

8. Classical music relieves physical pain. 

A Brunel University study found that surgical patients who listened to music during or after surgery had less pain, were less anxious and were more satisfied. It was also found that patients who listened to music used fewer painkillers. 

Expose children to classical music

Not only will your child become the most educated in their group (just kidding!), but listening to classical music or playing it through your speakers will have a positive effect on your household. This can help improve your child’s academic performance. To take it a step further, enroll your children in a classical instrument class, which will also reinforce the benefits one can derive from listening to classical music.

Make your child’s study station even more perfect by placing a keyboard near the Ergonomic Sit-Stand Kids Desk from Flexispot. Besides the health benefits, your kids can even learn to play classical music themselves. 

Final Thoughts 

There is nothing to lose and everything to gain when you decide to listen to more classical music. If you are a parent, consider getting your child to appreciate classical music. It will help him throughout his life, improving his brain function and elevating his overall mood.