Music is something that many people listen to daily but the question is why? Is it simply just to relax or to get in the right mindset? One can agree with both of these statements as they both relate to the idea that music can help reduce stress.
Music has many long lasting effects on the body that people might not even realize. It can lower heart rate, release endorphins, lower cortisol levels, reduce many stress related symptoms, and so much more.
OHS students and teachers can agree with this idea as they listen to music daily. Freshman Adelynn Miller said, “I think music has a positive impact on stress because it is very relaxing and helps take your mind off things going on.”
Listening to music multiple times each day can be part of one’s routine. This can include listening to music while getting ready for school, in the car, while working out or just working on assignments at school or at home. Miller said, “I listen to music sometimes in class and when I’m running to help push through and give me something to focus on.”
After a long day, teachers like to relax as well. OHS Physical Education/Health teacher, Ms. Michaela Kruger said, “I love to listen to music in the car… and I find that it’s a good way to decompress and kind of shut my mind down…”
An article from PsychCentral states, “While some types of music such as classical and ambient have long been studied for their calming effects, listening to your personal favorite music of any genre also has benefits.”
Some of Miller’s favorite artists to listen to while destressing include Morgan Wallen and Carrie Underwood while, some of Kruger’s favorites include Taylor Swift and Adele.
Music can also be incorporated into the school day, as many teachers play music in the background of their classroom during work time to reduce stress and help students focus. This can simply be for students to relax while working but it can also help the teachers focus too.
Overall, music is able to positively affect one’s mental health. Kruger said, “I think that sometimes with mental health, the world can get really loud and can be a lot, and I think that opportunities to kind of take a break from that is helpful and I think that music is one of those outlets for a lot of people, especially because you can listen to different kinds of music, depending on your mood.”
So, the next time that stress takes over, pause and hit play. Listen to a previous playlist or create one simply just for relaxing. Think about the best music to listen to that helps to create a more positive mood and mindset.
