For those who study it, meditation is an integral part of everyday life. It can have a number of measurable benefits and help people with daily living as well as facing issues that arise in their day to day life.
Meditation, like most things, comes in a variety of types, methods, etc… But one of the most overlooked methods of meditation is music. Yes, you read that right: music!
Music has the ability to provoke a meditative state in most people, even those who have never studied meditation. Whether you listen to it, play it or sing, the end result is the same. Think about it; you listen to a peppy, upbeat song and it makes you happy or cheers you up, right? You listen to a soft ballad and it evokes memories or emotional attachment.
Music on its own can help to reduce blood pressure and has been shown to increase the release of dopamine and aid with muscle function. Listening to music during physical activity can help to motivate you and push your body farther during a workout.
Music therapy has been shown to help patients suffering symptoms of dementia and helps to reduce depression. (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evidence-based-living/201708/music-is-good-the-soul-and-your-health)
I often use classical or asian meditation music in the background when practicing actual meditation. Any time I have a workout, whether cycling or weights at home, I put on some high energy music to help motivate me along.
So, crank up the tunes. The benefits are many and the drawbacks are few. ☯
The Blogging Buddhist 