Music has always had a special role in our lives-it not just for fun, it can be an effective healing and well-being aid. We set out to investigate the significant influence of music on our health and well-being in this article. We’ll go in-depth on how grownups use music’s therapeutic properties to get through life’s ups and downs.
We’ll explore the various ways that music can provide comfort and peace, ranging from calming melodies to exciting beats. Not only that, but we’ll also explore the various ways that music can provide comfort and peace, ranging from calming melodies to exciting beats. Not only that, but we’ll also explore various cultures and customs to see if any particular musical traditions have been passed down through the ages for therapeutic purposes. Prepare to be engrossed in the fascinating world of music as we explore its extraordinary capacity to elevate, heal, and bind us all together.
Music has the power to touch our souls, lift our spirits and heal. But can music actually act as medicine? According to, British Academy of sound Therapy (BAST) their study tell us , Music as Medicine, tested 7,581 participants and found that 89 percent believed music to be essential for their health and wellbeing, so there’s no doubt that it plays an important part in our daily lives.
According to new report from Nielsen Music 360, the share of people who listen to music globally are around 90-93%. 90% of the world’s population listens to music. This is no surprise, as music is a universal language.
John Hopkins Medicine, One of the main reasons people listen to sad music when they’re in a bad mood is that they feel some kind of connection to the lyrics, melody, and emotions in a song and want to amplify it.
The PNAS conducted a research project in 2019, and has proven that listening to your favorite music increases the motivation you have towards learning. When you’re motivated to learn, productivity with your work increases.
CARLSBAD, Calif. (Mar. 17, 2021)— During an otherwise bleak 2020, many Americans report that listening to music helped reduce stress and depression, while boosting work productivity, according to a new study. Per the study, music was more important to improving happiness over watching Netflix or even exercising. Additionally, nine out of ten respondents reported listening to more music in the last year than prior to March 2020.
An overview of 349 studies on music’s usefulness as a mental health treatment for conditions including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression, found that 68.5% of music-based interventions had positive results.
According to Lim, Hayoung (2019), What ties exist between music and use? The pleasure of listening; the closeness and warmth of practicing and rehearsing with a group; the intellectual stimulation of delving into the complexities of musical forms and structures; the physical energy released from performing and listening to music, which frequently motivates us to move and dance, are some of the responses.
North, Hargreaves and Hargreaves argues that a person’s appreciation of music in daily life is influenced by the environment in which it is heard, as well as the applications and level of involvement that a person makes of it. For two reason, “Which music do we like?” has emerged as one of the most often asked topics in psychology study.
First of all, as music is a part of everyone’s daily life and is seen by most as essential, studying music listening offers a genuine and valuable window into people’s experiences and behaviours across a range of settings and circumstances. Second, due to the recognition that music can be used to communicate information in social contexts as well as to express and elicit feelings and emotions. Nowadays, music is now frequently employed as a crucial component in studies on personality, emotion, and social psychology.
Thus, studies on musical preferences are continuing to give us profound understanding of a wide range of psychological issues. According to Steckler, M. A. (1998) [20] the impact of music therapy on anxiety and depression, pain perception, the relaxing and sedative effects of music, the effects of music therapy on stress and the stimulation of creativity and the psyche are among the topics covered.
The Author also provides examples from her own practice of the therapeutic benefits of music therapy. Its has been observed that music has significant therapeutic benefits on all fronts, including the emotional, spiritual and physical. A strong therapeutic response can be elicited by using music creatively and as a complement to other therapy approaches.
In addition, music is said to regulated emotions by temporarily allowing an escape from thoughts and feelings or validating thought and feelings, and releasing pent up emotions, anxiety, energy and anger. While it is clear music is a significant part of the lives of adolescents, the evidence that certain music styles are linked with a range of psychological attributes needs elaboration.
The environment in which music is created, heard, and taught is intrinsically tied to it, and studies on the connections between music, society, and culture have been conducted for many years. Important studies in the discipline of ethnomusicology have investigated the ways in which social and cultural norms impact music practices both broadly and more narrowly. For instance, music may serve as both a primary component of social events like weddings and a ceremonial vehicle for cultural expression and preservation.
This meaning is flexible and may change depending on the situation, which is represented in the various ways that sound and music are combined to create bigger pieces with various objectives. Music practices are inextricably linked to their surroundings, whether they are being used for entertainment or have a significant ceremonial purpose.
Previous studies indicate that listeners with diverse ethnic origins have distinct musical tastes. Few cross-cultural research on music information retrieval (MIR) concentrate on music mood, despite the fact that music mood/emotion is a significant aspect of music searching and appreciation. Furthermore, most research on cross-cultural music perception compares listeners from two cultures- Western vs non-western, for the most part.
In research of Argstatter, H. (2016) [4] basic emotional perceptions, including happiness and sadness, appear to be human universals and are therefore unrelated to musical experience. However, there is evidence for cultural specificity as well: when individuals and stimuli are from the same culture, it is easier to recognise emotional cues.
A study conducted across cultures looked into the following research inquiries: (1) How can listeners from many cultural backgrounds perceive the six basic universal emotions-happiness, sorrow, fear, contempt, anger and surprise-in music? (2) What specific components of musical emotions exhibit cross-cultural parallels and differences? The findings support the idea that music has a universal emotional sensibility. The outcome measuring process qualifies the results since the names for emotional categories are linguistically based and promote cultural diversity.
Methodology:
Overview:
Music, a universal language, holds an crucial role in our lives, accompanying us through various emotional states. Whether in moments of lethargy, happiness, sadness, or heartbreak, music serves as a reliable companion. This research strive to delve into the intriguing question of whether music possesses inherent healing properties. Moreover, it seeks to observe the specific genres or types of music that individuals perceive as having therapeutic effects and examines whether cultural influences shape these perceptions.
Research Design:
To straighten out the different dimensions of individuals’ experiences with music and its potential healing properties, a qualitative approach was embraced. This method allows for in-depth interviews, facilitating a rich exploration of participants’ perspectives. By opting for qualitative research, we aimed to capture the depth and complexity of participants’ views, providing a comprehensive understanding of the role of music in healing.
Participant Selection:
The study engaged a diverse group of 31 participants, encompassing individuals from varied backgrounds. This diversity ensured a broad spectrum of perspectives, as participants included university students, housewives, and unemployed individuals. By including participants from different walks of life, we aimed to capture a comprehensive range of experiences and opinions related to the healing potential of music.
Data Collection:
Qualitative data was diligently gathered through individual in-depth interviews. Initially considering audio recording, we identified participant discomfort and anxiety, restrain open responses. In response, a flexible approach emerged, with the decision to switch to note-taking during interviews. This adaptation aimed to create a more comfortable environment, allowing participants to speak about their thoughts openly and honestly. Consent was obtained from each participant, reinforcing the ethical commitment to respecting their comfort and privacy.
Ethical Consideration:
Ethical considerations played an important role throughout the research process. Participants were thoroughly briefed on the research’s objectives, providing them with a clear understanding of the study’s purpose. Informed consent was obtained, ensuring participants willingly chose to be part of the research. Privacy was carefully safeguarded by avoiding from collecting personal details, focusing solely on participants’ opinions regarding music’s healing properties. A commitment to non-judgmental and unbiased treatment of participants’ views was important fostering an atmosphere of respect and inclusivity.
Throughout the study, a conscious effort was made to uphold ethical standards by maintaining transparency, obtaining informed consent, and prioritizing participant comfort. The decision to adapt the data collection method In response to participant feedback represent a commitment to creating a good environment for open and honest expression.
In conclusion, this methodology summarize a qualitative exploration into the healing properties of music. By engaging participants from diverse backgrounds, employing in-depth interviews, and prioritizing ethical considerations, this research aim to contribute valuable insights to the understanding of music’s role in healing. The dynamic interchange between personal experiences, cultural influences, and musical preferences forms the crux of this exploration, aiming to shed light on the complex relationship between music and well-being.
Data analysis:
The analysis of qualitative data was done by undertaking the thematic analysis . The two main thematic areas are emerged from the analysis: (1) Impact of music on adults (2) cross- cultural perspective. Information was gathered through in-depth interviews and we want to record the answers but participants were not comfortable in recording, so we take notes of interviews and then transcribed in English. Transcripts were translated in English. The analysis including the transcript reading multiple times, to get better understanding of answer and to understand other opinions without biasness and to avoid subjectivity.
Timeline: We start gathering data from 25 December 2023 and we complete the data from 5 January , 2024. During this time, We collect data from 30 participants.
Results:
Theme 1: Examining the impact of music:
Music can be a powerful tool for healing and self-care for people of all ages. It has the ability to evoke emotions, provide comfort and promote overall well-being. Whether it’s through listening, singing, or playing an instrument, music has a way of touching our souls and helping us heal. A girl, 19 years old from Chaklala, Pakistan stated about music saying that;
Music powerfully valances and unwinds me. It has always impacted my health positively. Whenever I listen to music, it always reduces stress and improves my mood, providing me a sense of comfort and relaxation. Moreover, when I listen to some catchy melody, it instantly lifts my spirits and gave me hope. In addition, as always music has the power of bringing light into the darkest moments. Further adding, it is always a powerful tool for healing and self care for people of all ages. It always evokes my emotions, providing me comfort and lastly music itself can evoke certain feelings.
In contrast to this music can also be a way to trigger the trauma. A 25 years old man from Rawalpindi shared his views. He stated that;
I don’t believe in the healing power of music rather, it trigger my mental trauma. I believe that its just a disease to heart. Furthermore, music didn’t positively impacted my health.
Furthermore, A girl from Nowshera provided her views about music that;
Whenever I listen to music, it always diverts my attention and intensifies my emotions, in many cases, it has always hindered my thinking and intensifies my emotions. Further adding, listening to music along with motivational quotes has triggered me to become a goal oriented person.
Music has positive impact on health and well-being by reducing stress, improving mood and providing a sense of comfort and relaxation. In the views of a 20 years old girl from Rawalpindi, stated that;
As always, I enjoyed music but I am more healed by the lyrics and content. But here stating that I always used music as a entertainment not as therapy. Additionally, I think music is concerned with your emotional state therefore it has a deep impact on my good health. Moreover, music always helps me out to get out from stressful situation.
Further adding that music also triggers the past memories when we recall or listen to a specific music. A 30 years old women from Islamabad stated that;
Whenever I listen to music, it made me sad and down. Further adding, I listen to it to make me feel better and fresh, but at the end I feel upset. Music always triggers my emotions, so whenever I am sad, I listen to music and it again makes me feel weak.
Preferences for listening to specific songs can depend on mood, such as energetic tunes for workouts or calming music for relaxation. A 28 year man, from Rawalpindi shared his opinion about music that;
As always a listener of music, I can say this that whenever I feel upset and I listen to music, it always reduces our depression and stress. In my views, music with a cup of coffee is always a good choice and positively impacted me but totally relying on music is not good. Furthermore, music always makes me energetic. Moreover, music is good choice for people who faces struggles in their life and faces challenges.
Many adults turn to music for healing, using it as a tool for relaxation, emotional expression, or as a form of escape. An 18 years old girl from Rawalpindi stated that:
Whenever, I listen to music it helps me alot. Its always a therapy for me as it brings comfort to my heart. Additionally, I listen to music when I feel lonely and that helps me to cope up with the situation. Moreover, I intentionally use music as a healing purpose bringing a positive impact in my life. As an alone person, music overcomes my loneliness and brings peace in tough times. Lastly, I would say that music is always helpful as it always balances my mood.
Theme 2: Exploring cross- cultural perspective:
Culture profoundly shapes music, influencing its styles, themes, and instruments. Different cultures contribute diverse musical genres, reflecting societal values, traditions, and historical narratives. Music becomes a powerful means of expressing and preserving cultural identity, fostering a connection between people and their heritage. A woman ages 22 living in Rawalpindi stated that:
In our culture rabab is considered as the best healing instrument for music. As every string of rubab has it’s own charm. The soothing and calming sound of the rubab help in promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being
In cultural music there are some tunes seen as kind of special and good for important events or ceremonies. For the specific music I want to share perspective of a young lady aged 23 years from commercial area of Rawalpindi stated that:
Dhol, jhumar are the things, that in our culture are considered as for enjoyment and for peace. Other than this, Sufi music was considered as healing purpose in years ago, now people dance with any music and enjoy. The specific music in our culture is guitar music, people play guitar to enjoy the time and for peace
In others, it may be used on occasions, celebrations for mood changes and fun, so regard on this 22 years old Jamila from Rawalpindi said that:
In our culture, bansari and guitar is considered one of the best healing music in our culture. On special occasion, people listen these kind of music.
Many find solace, inspiration, and a sense of cultural identity in the rich heritage of classical music. The artistry and discipline required to excel in this genre also contribute to its enduring appeal. One of the 40 years old woman said about classical music that:
I prefer old classical music and traditional ghazal which I think revolves around pure love. Especially songs of last century in Indo-Pak.
Different cultures attribute healing properties to various types of music, such as traditional or spiritual music. There are many music in our culture that is used for healing but in some culture they used to listen Quranic verses. According to Zainab , a 19 years old college going girl said that:
Quranic recitations are culturally religiously considered healing in my culture.
There are some individual who like to listen other type of music not related to their area or culture. Their mood get better after listening to that music. Rabia, a 24 years old university girl said that:
I usually listen English ,Turkish, Spanish, Latin , very few Urdu and Punjabi songs, so yes my taste is a bit different from the people living in my culture.
Discussion:
Music holds a profound influence on adults, as shown by the findings of this qualitative research, delving into two key thematic areas: (1) the impact of music on adults and (2)a cross-cultural perspective. The first theme suggest that for many adults, music functions as a healing power and a source of motivation. Individuals turn to music for various purposes, ranging from seeking motivation and peace to celebrating happiness or coping with difficult situations. The results indicate that music is perceived positively, playing a significant role in people’s lives.
However, it is important to note that some individuals acknowledge the potential negative impacts of music. For instance, music has the power to trigger emotions, and while some turn to it in moments of sadness, it can intensify feelings of weakness, leading to tears. Contrary opinion suggest that, the act of crying itself is seen as a therapeutic release. This suggests that music serves as a multifaceted medium through which individuals express and navigate their emotions, enclose moments of joy, sorrow, and relaxation, all contributing to overall mental well-being.
The research Implies that music triggers emotions that, in turn, contribute to mental and emotional health. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing both the positive and negative impacts of music consumption. Acknowledging that individuals have to decide which type of music is healing for them, the study underscores the role of personal choice in utilizing music as a positive force in life.
Building upon these individual experiences, studies suggest that listening to music offers tangible benefits in processing emotions more effectively, leading to reduced stress levels and improved overall well-being. The release of endorphins, often associated with pleasure, contributes to reduce anxiety and depression. Moreover, music has been shown to high serotonin levels, fostering mood regulation and positive thinking.
Within the realm of art therapy, music stands out as one of the most extensively studied forms, demonstrating its efficacy in addressing various mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and stress. The therapeutic aspects of music therapy encompass meaningful exploration of lyrics, improvisational music playing, active listening, and even song writing.
Additionally, the research highlight the deep relationship between music and adult well-being. It portrays music as a dynamic force that, when chosen and utilized thoughtfully, has the potential to heal and enhance the emotional and mental landscapes of individuals. By recognizing the diverse impacts of music, both positive and negative, and understanding the therapeutic elements it encompasses, individuals can use the power of music for personal growth and well-being.
In our exploration of the healing potential of music, the second theme delves into the cross-cultural perspective, unravelling how diverse cultures perceive and integrate music into their daily lives. Traditional songs, often termed “folk songs,” emerge as integral components of cultural practices, accompanying a spectrum of activities including work, religious celebrations, and social gatherings.
These traditional songs possess a unique route, being passed down informally within the intimate circles of families, tribes, communities, or closely-knit groups. Many of these songs boast a rich history, revolves through generations within the same family or specific ethnic and regional communities. Notably, some American traditional songs can be traced back to distant origins such as Great Britain, Europe, Africa, and other homelands, thereby echoing the diverse cultural tapestry woven into America’s heritage.
Across these cultures, music assumes the role of a therapeutic agent, offering peace and healing. The significance of specific musical instruments and genres varies across cultural landscapes. For instance, in certain cultures, the sitar is consider for its healing qualities, generate a sense of healing and well-being. In contrast, others find emotional resonance in the cultural melodies produced by instruments like the guitar, rubab, or jhumar. In these contexts, cultural songs not only serve as a source of healing but also provide a communal space for shared experiences, often leading to spontaneous and collective dances.
Moreover, diverse cultural perspectives highlight the multifaceted nature of music’s healing influence. In some cultures, qawali and Sufi music take centre stage as potent sources of therapeutic sound. These genres are deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric, offering a unique avenue for individuals to connect with their spiritual selves and find solace in moments of distress. Each cultural milieu, then, crafts its own narrative around music, shaping the way individuals listen to and appreciate this universal art form.
Importantly, this research underscores that everyone, irrespective of cultural background, has their own distinct way of listening to and enjoying music. It becomes a marker of identity, a medium through which individuals express and connect with their emotions and experiences. As a result, music not only mirrors the cultural diversity of societies but also serves as a unifying force that transcends linguistic and societal boundaries.
In sum, this exploration of the cross-cultural perspective on music and healing shows the rich impact of human experience. Whether through the continuation of traditional songs, the embrace of specific instruments, or the immersion in distinct musical genres, every culture infuses its unique essence into the therapeutic potential of music. Understanding these diverse cultural perspectives enhances our appreciation for the universal language of music, highlighting its profound ability to resonate with the human spirit across the globe.
