

This last idea is known as The Mozart Effect, popularized by a 1993 study in which researchers analyzed students listening to classical music before some tests. The Mozart EffectĪre you familiar with the parenting technique of playing classical music to help a baby sleep? Studies show that classical music helps calm babies down, and some parents believe it even makes the baby smarter. Classical music forms from non-European countries, like China, can be just as relaxing due to the similarities in sound and music, and even modern classical music with similar structures and patterns can be found playing softly in many spas. Since classical music form is usually associated with the Classical Period in Western history and the composer Mozart, many guides suggest listening to Mozart for the benefits of classical music and relaxation (more on that below), but any classical music piece can do. You wouldn’t want to choose classical music that is loud and blaring and relies on brass instruments. Listening to classical music can have these effects and more, but it’s important to choose the right music, especially when it comes to relaxation. There are a variety of activities that release dopamine and listening to classical music is one of them.Īside from improving a person’s mood and helping them to relax, there are a wide range of benefits from listening to classical music that affect all ages, and all stages of life, from babies to the elderly. When you’re happy, you’re less stressed, and vice versa.


This is due to the release of dopamine which is the body’s natural happy chemical that improves a person’s mood, and also blocks the release of stress. Yet, it’s the structure and slow tunes of most classical music, specifically, that creates a calming effect on the listener. Why is that? Anyone who listens to music knows that it puts you in a good mood, especially when it’s your favorite music. While studies have been done on the effects of listening to music on the human psyche, there is something in particular about classical music that relaxes and “heals” the body. Music has been used as a form of entertainment throughout history but did you know that it can also be used to improve brain function and relaxation?Ĭlassical music and relaxation go hand in hand the soft sounds from string instruments are both beautiful to listen to and calming.
