Music is something many people enjoy because it is a universal language. My passion for music comes from my family because many of my relatives are musicians. My grandma was a music teacher who played the flute and piano. My mother plays the piano and violin, one of my cousins plays guitar and another cousin plays acoustic bass. I decided to sing and play the clarinet, and every time I do, it helps me express myself and deal with my feelings. If people knew more about the benefits of music, they would probably try to learn how to play a musical instrument. Music helps brain development, serves as a therapy for mental health disorders, and also helps animals’ productivity.
Music activates every part of your brain, and playing an instrument is even more beneficial. When people listen to music the brain lights up by activating emotions, memory, and movement. Listening to music helps your brain to block out noises and concentrate better while studying and working. In my personal experience, when I start practicing my clarinet I forget about the outside world. If I feel that I did not have a good day, playing a happy piece improves my mood. Music also brings back memories. It reminds me of my childhood and makes me remember teachers and friends. While playing an instrument you have to coordinate your eyes and hands, and the more you practice the faster and better you become. Learning to play an instrument helps your brain to learn new things easily. You can stay focused, improve your memory and coordinate your eyes and hands easily.
These days music is used as a therapy because studies have shown how it helps with mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post traumatic stress disorder. I had a difficult time when I was bullied at school, and music was my best therapy. Music helped me to overcome anxiety and depression by helping me cope, heal, and grow. During days where I was struggling, music helped me to relax, and listening to slow songs helped my heart rate to slow down. Music is also a good therapy for people with dementia and Parkinson’s disease, and it can sometimes bring back memories. Music also helps children with Autism to communicate and socialize better.
Have you ever wondered if animals enjoy music too? Believe it or not, music improves animals’ lives. According to some studies, cows produce more milk when they listen to classical music, such as Mozart. This type of music helps cows reduce stress, lower their heart rate, and increase milk production. Horses also benefit from music. Calm music helps horses relax during grooming and veterinary visits. Music can help dogs feel calmer, bark less, and rest more.
In conclusion, music has the power to improve lives in many different ways. My own experience has shown me that music is more than just a hobby. It helps me express my feelings, overcome challenges, and find comfort during difficult times. Music also helps the brain by improving memory, focus, and coordination. It can be used as a therapy to help people with mental health disorders, and its benefits extend to animals by reducing stress and improving their well being. Because of all these benefits, I believe more people should learn about music and, if possible, try playing a musical instrument. Music is a powerful gift that can make life better for both people and animals.
Francina Escobedo – Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart – DMSF Class of 2030
Photo Credit: MuhammadArqam – Adobe Stock