Music. It makes us smile;
it excites us and makes us dance; it brings us tears. A simple piece can bring
back a memory in full relief; we actually feel we're there. And it can change
our mood within minutes- or instantaneously. Music affects our mood in a
variety of ways. When we listen to a rhythm, our heart actually begins to synch
with it. A slow heartbeat with a strong diastolic pressure tells our brain that
something sad or depressing is occurring. Very fast beating is obviously
related to excitement, whereas a dreamy rhythm with occasional upbeats can
signify love or joy. This all has a powerful effect on our brain, which directs
our psyche to actually feel what's being communicated to us. Our
work provides support for what many people already do—listen to music to
improve their moods. Whenever you are feeling down and blue, music
can get you out of the dumps – literally.
