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How Making Music Reduces Stress
Playing some tunes is just what the doctor ordered to fight the ill effects of chronic stress.
How to Start Using Music for Stress Reduction
What’s the best way for the not-so-musically-inclined to get in the swing? Barry Bittman, MD, has some pointers:
Don’t pick up a guitar. Mastering basic finger technique takes too long, Bittman says. Your goal is to enjoy the experience here and now. It’s important to choose an instrument that doesn’t require tons of technique to sound good. He suggests digital keyboards that let you make pleasant sounds just by pressing keys. Or just bang on a can.
Play by ear. Don’t worry about learning songs or reading music. Instead, take a tip from Dana Marlowe and simply jam away for the fun of it. "I’m not going to be releasing a record any time soon," she says. "It’s just a loud cacophony of sound."
Enjoy often. It does take time for the benefits of music-making to create lasting changes in your cells. Studies have found that playing an hour a week for six weeks can lower the stress response. Making music is like any other wellness activity; you should make it a permanent lifestyle change.
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