We've all heard how playing Mozart for babies will supposedly make them smarter. This phenomenon is known as the "Mozart Effect" was introduced in 1993, and since then there has been some controversy surrounding this belief.
However, the benefits of classical music have been studied in adolescents and adults for quite some time now, and there is no doubt that classical music really does have some positive benefits for the human mind and body.
While music, in general, has always been believed to change our moods, provide us with a sense of motivation and give us hope, classical music, in particular, exemplifies just how powerful music can truly be.
People with a deep appreciation for classical music are hard to find these days, and concert symphonies are exactly listed in iTunes top hits. Nevertheless, you can't really go wrong with some Bach, Beethoven or the brain benefits of their music.
Classical music has been proven to lower blood pressure, relieve stress levels, fight depression, manage pain, improve sleep and enhance memory.
Listening to some 1800s tunes can even promote more honest communication. According to a Southern Methodist University study, classical music promotes cognitive expression and can make people more open to sharing personal information, even if the music is played subtly in the background.
Our cognitive functions, such as learning and memory, are enhanced by the ability of classical music to influence the brain's gene expression. As a result, the brain produces more dopamine and reduces cell activity such as synuclein-alpha, which is known to increase the risk for Parkinson's disease.
Classical music is frequently played in post-anesthesia units because of its comforting capabilities. Studies have shown that playing such music helps the patient to focus more so on the soothing sounds of what is being played instead of the physical pain he or she may be experiencing.
Improved visual attention is yet another brainy benefit of listening to some symphonic melodies. In a study conducted with stroke patients, individuals demonstrated higher attention levels while listening to classical music as opposed to silence and other genres.
Studies have also demonstrated how our musical preferences directly correlate with our personality types. According to a study conducted at Heriot-Watt University, individuals who prefer classical music tend to have high self-esteem, an innate desire to be creative, feel relaxed and at ease and are typically more introverted.
No matter which genre of music you prefer, incorporating some classical music into your daily listening will only benefit your mind. Fortunately, most classical can be found for free online, so go enjoy some of Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" to ring in the start of springtime.
