Stress and anxiety are two of the most critical health issues plaguing people today. Despite an increased focus on mental health, both from government, the media, and the population in general, they remain important and often un-talked about issues.
This is particularly true if you’re a musician or work in the music industry. Studies have shown that those working in the entertainment industry are more susceptible to mental health issues, more likely to be medicated for such issues, and more likely to die as a result of such issues.
But music is also a tool to help people reduce stress and anxiety and neuroscientists in the UK believe they’ve found a playlist that effectively helps to relieve anxiety, including one song which they say can reduce it by a staggering 65 percent.
As Inc reports, the study involved participants who were tasked with solving difficult puzzles as quickly as possible whilst connected to sensors. The participants listened to different songs whilst solving the stressful puzzles and researchers measured their brain activity.
According to Dr. David Lewis-Hodgson of Mindlab International, who conducted the study, the top song, an ambient composition entitled ‘Weightless’ by Marconi Union, induced a greater state of calm and relaxation than any other music tested to date.
It reduced the anxiety levels of stressed participants by 65 percent and lowered their normal physiological resting rates, i.e. their usual blood pressure, cortisol levels, and heart rates when not stressed, by 35 percent.
The song itself, which researchers advised against listening to whilst driving, was composed in collaboration with sound therapists, who helped the group create a song that actively slows the human heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and makes cortisol dip.
If you or someone you know needs personal help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636.
Stress Less Playlist
10. ‘We Can Fly’ by Rue du Soleil (Café Del Mar)
9. ‘Canzonetta Sull’aria’ by Mozart
8. ‘Someone Like You’ by Adele
7. ‘Pure Shores’ by All Saints
6. ‘Please Don’t Go’ by Barcelona
5. ‘Strawberry Swing’ by Coldplay
4. ‘Watermark’ by Enya
3. ‘Mellomaniac (Chill Out Mix)’ by DJ Shah
2. ‘Electra’ by Airstream
1. ‘Weightless’ by Marconi Union
