Someone asked me recently, "how come you spend so much money on concerts when you could just listen to music through your headphones?"

This was one of the most shocking things I have ever been asked. I never thought the appeal of live music was a question. I've always been a fan of experiencing shows in person but never considered others might not understand or experience the power of it. Live music isn't just better and fun to attend, but it actually has multiple health benefits from attending them. Studies around the world have proven this theory, and if science says it's true, then it must be and here's why.

1. Stress relief.

During concerts there is a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure and respiratory rate resulting in total relaxation of your body. You can escape your problems simply by enjoying your favorite artist and release some stress hormones without even trying.

2. The environment.

There's something beautiful in general about people coming together over the same artist. If you look around at a venue and take in your surroundings for even a minute you'll realize that race, wealth, backgrounds and any other trait about the people around you suddenly becomes diminished. In that moment all you know about the strangers around you is that they share the same passion as you do for the performer. Shows don't just bring you and your friends together, but they also have the power to bring complete strangers to common ground they might have never seen before during the show. Not to mention, friends even after the show.

3. Exercise.

Shows are also a great form of exercise! Usually you're standing during the duration of the show which is already a calorie burner. Not only that but no matter what genre you enjoy, if you're a dancer at shows you burn even more. Instead of just singing along, it is actually remarkably better for calorie burning and happiness wise to dance! Not a bad way to work off a meal if you ask me.

4. Pain relief.

Ever heard of a "skin-gasm"? Well it's exactly what it sounds like. Concerts are proven to make you feel incredible in the moment and if the thought of a "skin-gasm" doesn't make you want to go to one then I don't know what will. Not only that but it's proven that concerts can actually reduce pain not only mentally but also physically. Listening to your favorite music in person can block pain from your body because of the endorphins your brain creates while listening.