Music Lowers Cortisol Levels


 


In our fast-paced and high-stress modern world, finding ways to unwind and reduce stress is essential. One activity that many people turn to is listening to music. Music has long been known to have a powerful effect on our emotions and mood, and recent research suggests that it may also help to lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Cortisol is a hormone that is released by the adrenal glands in response to stress. While cortisol is essential for many bodily functions, such as regulating blood sugar levels and controlling inflammation, chronic stress can lead to an overproduction of cortisol, which can have negative health effects such as anxiety, depression, and a weakened immune system.





One study published in the journal PLoS One found that listening to music for 30 minutes was associated with a decrease in cortisol levels in study participants. In the study, 60 healthy adults were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a music group, a control group, and a silence group. Participants in the music group listened to classical music for 30 minutes, while those in the control group were given a relaxation audio program, and those in the silence group simply rested in a quiet room. Salivary cortisol levels were measured before and after the intervention, and the results showed that the music group had a significant decrease in cortisol levels compared to the control and silence groups.

Another study published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing found that listening to music during a stressful medical procedure could also help to lower cortisol levels. In the study, 72 patients undergoing a colonoscopy were randomly assigned to either a music group or a control group. The music group listened to their choice of music through noise-cancelling headphones during the procedure, while the control group received no music. Salivary cortisol levels were measured before and after the procedure, and the results showed that the music group had significantly lower cortisol levels than the control group.

While these studies provide moderate evidence that music can help to lower cortisol levels, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between music and cortisol. It is also important to remember that individual responses to music may vary, and not all types of music may have the same effect on cortisol levels. However, given the many other proven benefits of listening to music, such as improved mood and reduced anxiety, incorporating music into your stress management routine may be worth considering.

In conclusion, while more research is needed, the evidence so far suggests that listening to music can be an effective way to lower cortisol levels and reduce stress. So the next time you are feeling overwhelmed, put on your favorite tunes and let the music work its magic.

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