Have you ever noticed your shoulders drop when a favourite song comes on? That is not just in your head. Music is one of the most accessible self-care tools we have, and you do not need any special equipment to use it.
What does the research say?
A systematic review looked at 61 studies on how music and singing affect wellbeing in adults. The authors report reliable evidence of positive effects on wellbeing. An exploratory meta-analysis showed improvements in depression outcomes, while the effect on anxiety was not statistically significant. So music is not a miracle cure, but it can be a helpful support.
The bigger picture is encouraging too. A World Health Organization (WHO) Europe report drawing on more than 3,000 studies found that the arts can play a major role in preventing ill health and promoting health.
Short sessions count
The review notes that brief interventions of 5 to 30 minutes improved mood. Listening to music lowered anxiety in some stressful situations, such as exercise testing, and stress and anxiety were reduced in pregnant women as well.