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#57 Music as Medicine: The Mental Health Benefits of Playing an Instrument
Can playing a musical instrument really improve your mental health? Science says yes! In this episode of The Happy Dance Podcast, we’re diving into the research-backed benefits of making music and how it can positively impact your mood, brain function, and overall well-being.
I’ll be sharing insights from recent studies on music and mental health, including how playing an instrument can reduce stress, improve cognitive abilities, and foster deep social connections. Plus, I’ll reflect on my own experiences with playing instruments—past and present.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How playing an instrument affects brain health, memory, and focus
- Why music is a powerful tool for stress relief and emotional regulation
- The role of music in building social connections and combating loneliness
- How achieving musical goals can boost confidence and self-esteem
- My personal experiences with playing instruments and how music has supported my well-being
Whether you're a lifelong musician or someone who’s always wanted to pick up an instrument, this episode will inspire you to embrace music as a powerful tool for healing and self-expression.
Episode References:
Dingle, G. A., Sharman, L. S., Bauer, Z., Beckman, E., Broughton, M., Bunzli, E., Davidson, R., Draper, G., Fairley, S., Farrell, C., Flynn, L. M., Gomersall, S., Hong, M., Larwood, J., Lee, C., Lee, J., Nitschinsk, L., Peluso, N., Reedman, S. E., ... Wright, O. R. L. (2021). How do music activities affect health and well-being? A scoping review of studies examining psychosocial mechanisms. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 713818. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.713818
Zhang, Q., Park, A., & Suh, K.-H. (2024). Relationship between playing musical instruments and subjective well-being: Enjoyment of Playing Instruments Scale. Behavioral Sciences, 14(9), 744. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14090744
🎧 Check out the RELAPSE - The Happy Dance Podcast Ep. 57 Playlist on Spotify
🌈 Download my guidebook and boost your mood with movement: Move Your Mood: A Practical Guide to Using Dance and Music for Self-Discovery and Sparking Joy
🩰 Find printable coloring books and fun resources for little dancers: Dance Daze Online
⚡ Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly creativity and wellness tips: The Creative Spark
🎨 Purchase a handmade dance board to enhance your dance practice: Dance Daze Dance Boards
Stay Connected:
✨ Follow The Happy Dance Podcast on IG: @TheHappyDancePodcast
✨ Follow me on TT: @saumirahmcwoodson
✨ Follow me on IG: @saumirahmcwoodson
View all episodes
By Saumirah McWoodson
3.9
77 ratings
Can playing a musical instrument really improve your mental health? Science says yes! In this episode of The Happy Dance Podcast, we’re diving into the research-backed benefits of making music and how it can positively impact your mood, brain function, and overall well-being.
I’ll be sharing insights from recent studies on music and mental health, including how playing an instrument can reduce stress, improve cognitive abilities, and foster deep social connections. Plus, I’ll reflect on my own experiences with playing instruments—past and present.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How playing an instrument affects brain health, memory, and focus
- Why music is a powerful tool for stress relief and emotional regulation
- The role of music in building social connections and combating loneliness
- How achieving musical goals can boost confidence and self-esteem
- My personal experiences with playing instruments and how music has supported my well-being
Whether you're a lifelong musician or someone who’s always wanted to pick up an instrument, this episode will inspire you to embrace music as a powerful tool for healing and self-expression.
Episode References:
Dingle, G. A., Sharman, L. S., Bauer, Z., Beckman, E., Broughton, M., Bunzli, E., Davidson, R., Draper, G., Fairley, S., Farrell, C., Flynn, L. M., Gomersall, S., Hong, M., Larwood, J., Lee, C., Lee, J., Nitschinsk, L., Peluso, N., Reedman, S. E., ... Wright, O. R. L. (2021). How do music activities affect health and well-being? A scoping review of studies examining psychosocial mechanisms. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 713818. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.713818
Zhang, Q., Park, A., & Suh, K.-H. (2024). Relationship between playing musical instruments and subjective well-being: Enjoyment of Playing Instruments Scale. Behavioral Sciences, 14(9), 744. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14090744
🎧 Check out the RELAPSE - The Happy Dance Podcast Ep. 57 Playlist on Spotify
🌈 Download my guidebook and boost your mood with movement: Move Your Mood: A Practical Guide to Using Dance and Music for Self-Discovery and Sparking Joy
🩰 Find printable coloring books and fun resources for little dancers: Dance Daze Online
⚡ Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly creativity and wellness tips: The Creative Spark
🎨 Purchase a handmade dance board to enhance your dance practice: Dance Daze Dance Boards
Stay Connected:
✨ Follow The Happy Dance Podcast on IG: @TheHappyDancePodcast
✨ Follow me on TT: @saumirahmcwoodson
✨ Follow me on IG: @saumirahmcwoodson