Music... A Great Stress Buster

In today’s society the word ‘stress' crops up with frightening regularity. The increasing cost of stress, both socially and financially, is of concern both to the individual and to business. Stress has been reported as being the top reason for absenteeism in the workplace.

 

Continued stress can lead to health problems such as headaches, high blood pressure, anxiety and depression. It is also a big factor for many who are already dealing with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, lupus or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to name but a few. Those suffering from ongoing stress are more likely to fall ill and the ill health itself can become another point of stress for the individual.

Thankfully society is becoming more and more aware of this problem and there are many accepted ways of reducing and managing stress. One of the most effective and enjoyable methods of stress management is through music. Over the next couple of months I will discuss a few ways in which we can use music to help manage stress.

Music can have a profound effect on our emotional state. Just listening to a favourite piece of music can have an incredibly uplifting effect on us. Not everyone likes the same music and what makes one individual feel happy may irritate another. If you are anything like me, you will have certain things you like listening to, depending on how you are feeling. Have a think about the music you like and listen to regularly. Why do you like certain music and how does it make you feel? Go through your music and make a list of all the pieces of music that make you feel happy, that give you that uplifting feeling - your ‘happy music’.

We have access to an abundance of electronic devices today through which we can listen to music: radio, tv, mp3 players, CD players, cassette players, computers and the list goes on. Make yourself up a tape, CD or play list with just your ’happy music’ on it. Then, next time you feel stressed or a little down put on your ‘happy music’ and let those positive endorphins start to flow.

Perhaps you could try putting together a selection of light classical or ambient new age pieces and make a ’relaxation music’ CD. Or try putting together some favourite old disco hits or boppy pop tunes for a ‘move-it’ CD. Its amazing how much easier everyday chores such as housecleaning can be if you put on the right music.

And remember we’re all different - for some of us Madonna may be the perfect stress buster, while for others a little Beethoven may be just the ticket. It’s a case of knowing how different music makes you feel and using that knowledge to create more positive experiences for yourself. Music can help us alter our moods in a positive way and relieve the build up of everyday stress.

There are many ways to alleviate and manage stress, and many health professionals and other services available to assist you. However music would have to be one of the simplest and most readily accessible tools - why not head for your music collection and give it a try today.