
Sometimes, the weight of economic, social, relationship, and work pressures can leave you tense and exhausted. Research has shown how dangerous toxic stress is to physical and mental well-being—not to mention appearance. Too much stress can make emotional regulation difficult, so adding something to the environment that lowers stress levels would be a good idea.
A couple of months ago, I was at a friend’s house along with about two dozen of my coworkers and their family members. One of the entertainment activities was karaoke. The highlight of the gathering was when “Sweet Caroline” came on and everybody, young and old, was on their feet singing as loudly as they could and having fun. Even those who did not know Neil Diamond’s lyrics word for word were still enjoying the atmosphere, at least humming along. While the excitement was unfolding, I looked over my shoulder and saw more of my coworkers smiling and dancing with no worries in the world. I immediately imagined a workplace where people were having the same level of fun without any self-consciousness or fear of embarrassment.
It is worth repeating that a workplace, whether virtual or physical, can be a stressful place. And some jobs and workplaces are inherently more stressful than others. Obviously, people cannot totally escape stressful situations at work, but they can definitely find ways to make things better. One of those ways is by listening to music.
Listening to music has been proven to be therapeutic. People use music to energize themselves during competition or any other physical engagements or to calm their nerves when under pressure. Professionals in high-pressure jobs use music to relax themselves. Worldwide, about 53 to 72 percent of surgeons play music during surgery.
- Joggers listen to music to stay focused and to self-reflect.
- People exercise while listening to music to relieve stress or—depending on the tempo—to get some adrenaline flowing.
- While studying for MCAT, NCLEX, LSAT, EPPP, IEEE, or any other kind of professional test, some people listen to classical music such as Beethoven to get their heads in a mental space for studying.
- Some parents sing lullabies to put their babies in a relaxed mood for sleep.
- Others play background music while sleeping.
- Therapists encourage their patients to listen to music as a means of relaxing and also for self-reflection.
- Some athletes listen to songs for pregame preparation to get their minds right for the challenge ahead.
- Some workers go to their cars to listen to music while enjoying their lunch.
From these scenarios, it is clear that people use music to express and, at times, to change their feelings. It is obvious that listening to music is a powerful tool either to relax or uplift the spirits. This is why it is said that “music is a universal language.” Since listening to music serves multiple purposes, it would be a great idea to promote the use of music therapy in all forms, especially in the workplace. With the exception of music causing a distraction in certain cases, the use of music in the workplace, especially to relax the mind and increase performance and job satisfaction, can be highly beneficial. Here are three ways music can enhance your well-being:
1. Good music can be good for you: Can you think of a song that brightens your day or reminds you of someone each time you hear it? You can remember a song that means so much and always puts a smile on your face each time you hear it, or even if you anticipate hearing it at certain places. Good songs have a way of instantly sending you into an emotionally safe place. Imagine either starting your shift at work by listening to positive music or in a break room with soundproof walls or headphones listening to your favorite music—all to relieve stress. Managers should support their team members by providing a space for music and see how they respond to their job tasks.
2. Positive music can be good for your brain: Listening to music is good for the brain because it keeps your brain networks strong. Unfortunately, any parts of the brain that are not utilized or activated are weakened while those parts that are used are strengthened—basically a “use it or lose it” type of deal. If regularly playing or listening to music can strengthen your brain, why not give it a try? Keep in mind, as research suggests, that music that plays at about 60 beats per minute is best for encouraging alpha brainwaves that signal a relaxed and conscious mind.
3. Music can help in dispute resolution: At least two globally recognized songs are used to foster peace and harmony. “One Love” by Bob Marley has been used to promote world peace by UNICEF during the COVID-19 pandemic, and “Imagine” by John Lennon has had the effect of drawing people together, whether in concerts or official gatherings. There is power in music. Even participating in community singing can bring people from different cultures together for a peace talk. Interestingly, music has brought younger generations from different geographical backgrounds together more than any other means. People who listen to music or play instruments have the potential to develop emotional competence through the lyrics and performance.
Music is simply a beautiful form of art that communicates beyond any particular language or age. Music appeals to anyone who is willing to listen—whether in the boardroom, bedroom, hospital, hospice, assembly lines, or wherever sound can penetrate. Music leaves a lasting impression that echoes even after it stops playing; it harmonizes the brain and can even help in resolving disputes or solving difficult puzzles. Give it a try, and you will never regret it.