Some people tend to listen to music to wind down after a hard day, and others will use music as a driving force during exercise. Whatever the case may be, it is clear that music can have a positive impact on your life. In fact, music may be able to help in more ways than you actually realize. Here are three ways in which music can help improve your life as a whole – all backed with scientific research:

1. Music May Help Stroke Patients Recover Faster and Lead Better Lives.

Music therapy can help improve both speech and communication by using the melody and rhythm of the song as well as encouraging the patient to sing along to their favorite tunes. In addition to speech and communication, music can help improve overall muscle control and movement, mood, memory and even motivation in stroke patients. Further, music has the ability to decrease the risk of depression and anxiety, while also improving the overall quality of life in stroke survivors.

2. Classical Music May Reduce Heart Disease Risk.

From Verdi to Beethoven, classical music may be something to try if you would like to lower your chances of developing cardiovascular disease or if you just need to keep your blood pressure low. Research has been shown that classical music that features a 10-second repetitive rhythm can lower your blood pressure and create an overall calming effect on your body. Researchers say that the repetitive pace of the music stimulates the heart to essentially function at a more normal rhythm. In this particular study, it was determined that rock, pop and jazz had zero effect on an individual's blood pressure or it caused it to increase.

3. Music May Help Parkinson's Patients with Rehabilitation of Emotional and Motor Skills.

Research suggests that music therapy may help improve certain responses in patients who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. The study took 32 participants with PD and divided them into two groups: one with physical therapy and one with music therapy. It was determined that music therapy is indeed an effective method for rehabilitation in patients with Parkinson's disease, as it can help improve motor, behavioral and emotional functions. Music therapy even showed to improve patient's quality of life and daily living activities.

Before you jump into music therapy and music lessons, speak to your general practitioner about your current health. Discuss what options you have and see if music therapy is even something that you can benefit from in your individual situation. For more information, contact Sound Family Health or a similar location.