Why is music so appealing? Almost everyone in the world listens to and enjoys music. It is a universal language that is mutually understood and felt. There is nothing quite like the feeling of listening to an enjoyable song. Music provides a backdrop of inspiration for creative endeavors, and motivation for all kinds of challenges. It compliments joyful moments, and assists in getting over a bad mood. Music brings relaxation, entertainment and self-expression to the listener, as well as an escape from the stresses of life.
Everyone feels music differently. Researchers at the Tokyo University of the Arts in Japan discovered two kinds of emotions related to music: perceived emotions and felt emotions. Perceived emotions allow people to understand the emotions of a piece of music without actually feeling them personally, which is why some people find listening to sad music enjoyable rather than depressing — it’s kind of like sympathy. Felt emotions are when people emotionally feel the music personally and relate to it — similar to empathy.
Whether someone connects to music with their perceived or felt emotions, music adds color to their life. It accents the little moments of bliss and magic, while empathizing with the times of sadness and pain. It is a loyal friend, always there at just the right time, ready to express and understand the emotional state of the listener. There is a fitting song for every moment, a soundtrack for life.
An example of a perfect time for this soundtrack is while exercising. Music is beneficial for optimal exercising. Listening to music competes for the brain’s attention during physical exertion, and can help override the signals of fatigue experienced while exercising. It elevates mood, increases endurance, reduces perceived effort and may promote metabolic efficiency.
When listening to music, people run farther, bike longer and swim faster — often without knowing it, according to researchers at Brunel University in London. A good playlist should always accompany a good exercise session.
People tend to find a style of music they like and stick to it, but diversifying one’s musical palate is healthy for brain function and can be a rewarding experience for the listener. New combinations of musical styles are being invented every day. There is a plethora of new artists making great music in 2017.
Also, unfamiliar or uninteresting music is best for safe driving, according to researchers at Ben-Gurion University in Israel. Try listening to some new, weird music on the morning commute. The University of Idaho’s radio station, KUOI 89.3 FM, is a great place to start. They definitely play some odd music sometimes.
Music may seem like something superfluous, but maybe it should be prioritized and incorporated more into daily life. Maybe people should listen to more music and better music — music that inspires and adds joy, focus and vibrancy to life.
Listen — the music is waiting.
Andrew Brand can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @theandrewbrand