In a world of constant noise, people are looking for new ways to improve their mental wellbeing and lower stress levels. Monthly 2900 people are searching for “how does music impact the brain” with a further 480 people looking for answers to “how does music reduce stress”. A YouGov study showed that 74% of people have felt so stressed they have been overwhelmed or unable to cope*. Scientific studies consistently highlight the tangible benefits of music on mental health. Oxytocin and dopamine release, triggered by specific sounds, are becoming recognised contributors to improved wellbeing.
The sound experts at KEF have shared 5 benefits of music on your wellbeing and how subwoofers are the missing piece to your music set up to enhance the emotional connection to music.
5 Benefits Of Music On Your Wellbeing
Excessive noise can trigger annoyance and irritability, as studies indicate that a noisy setting can increase stress hormone levels*. Whether it’s ongoing construction or persistent traffic noise, speakers placed around your home or noise-cancelling headphones offer a potential solution to restore tranquillity amid disturbances.
Lowers Stress
Music serves as both a distraction and a stress reliever, lowering cortisol levels. People often use it to escape anxiety, though its therapeutic effects vary individually. What works for others might not work for you; trial and error may be necessary. Listening to music with a different theme or setting can provide a mental vacation. This is one of the many benefits of noise-cancelling headphones.
Increases Brain Capacity
The brain behaves like it has muscle memory, getting stronger with use and weaker with disuse or misuse. Playing and listening to music activates various brain regions, resembling a mental workout. Long engagements with music, like classical or nostalgic sessions, can even enhance brain capacity. Conversely, short-form media like TikTok videos lack these benefits and may worsen mental health. Take time to enjoy longer music experiences; not everything can be resolved in a few minutes.
Enhances Mood
Deep or active listening, without distractions, can boost your mood effectively. Using headphones can help create a focused listening environment amidst distractions.
Be mindful of the type of music you listen to and when, as it can impact your mood and activities throughout the day.
Improves Self Expression
Music enhances self-expression and understanding. Listening to relatable songs offers comfort and inspiration. Even if you’re not musically inclined, music fuels creativity in other areas like art or writing which can help to clear your mind.
Build Connections With Other People
Music is inherently social, from ancient gatherings to modern festivals. Concerts and festivals bring people together, fostering friendships and exposing audiences to new artists. The internet further connects music enthusiasts globally, facilitating discussions and discoveries. Whether bonding at live events or online, music builds communities and supports mental health.
Feel the Difference: How Subwoofers Enhance Emotional Connection to Music
Subwoofers are capable of delivering low frequencies and breathe life into the bass of music, movies, and games. The result? An immersive depth of sound that resonates through the room, stirring emotions and intensifying experiences.
While HiFi speaker setups provide good sound quality, adding a subwoofer introduces a new dimension of emotional depth. Sarah Yule, Marketing Director at KEF explains further,
“HiFi speaker setups can provide the listener with a fantastic soundscape and perception of the stereo field, which is where sounds can be placed horizontally from left to right or across the entire field simultaneously. However, adding a subwoofer to your set-up introduces a new dimension of emotional depth.”
The experts at KEF reveal 4 ways that subwoofers enhance your emotional connection to music;
- Immersive Listening: Subwoofers bring the bass to life with frequencies between 20 and 200 Hz, immersing you in a depth of sound that resonates through the room and stirs your soul.
- Emotional Connection: HiFi speakers offer quality, but subwoofers add emotional depth. Each harmony and beat creates a palpable atmosphere.
- Sensory Experience: With a subwoofer, you don’t just hear the music—you feel it. Music hums and resonates, evoking emotions.
- Bass Reproduction: With each beat, they elevate the emotional stakes, drawing you deeper into the music score.
