Music and the brain Fri, Jan 18, 2019

Most people would probably say they enjoy listening to music on a regular basis. From jamming in the car with friends, to throwing on some tunes to work to. But did you know that there’s scientific evidence that links listening to music directly to your mood and general happiness?

According to a study at Durham University in the UK, there’s a direct correlation between happiness and listening to music. The study found that even sad music brings most listeners pleasure and comfort. The 3 surveys of more than 2,400 people focused mainly on the emotions and memorable experiences associated with listening to music, and the majority of feedback from the participants was positive. The lead author, Tuomas Eerola, Ph.D., said, “The results help us to pinpoint the ways people regulate their mood with the help of music, as well as how music rehabilitation and music therapy might tap into these processes of comfort, relief, and enjoyment.”

In a 2013 study, the Journal of Positive Psychology found that people who listened to upbeat music improved their overall mood, and affected their happiness. One of the authors there noted that happiness is linked to all sorts of benefits such as better physical health, happier relationships, and even higher income, which is just another one of many reasons to listen to your favorite music!

Whether you’re having a bad day or a good one, at work, at home, or even on the go, music is scientifically proven to boost your mood. So grab your headphones, throw on your favorite playlist, and jam your way into a better day!