When someone takes a ride in my car, they’re often surprised to realize that the radio is tuned to a classical music station. Why would a stylish and forward-thinking person like me want to listen to this boring music? My friends never perceived my personal interest in classical music and often asked to switch the radio station to something more “upbeat” and modern. Of course, I took their feedback lightly and laughed at their reaction when Mozart’s Requiem in D Minor played as the car engine started!
Why we turned to classical music
The truth is, I started tuning in to classic radio station about two years ago. I’ve always enjoyed listening to the most recent beats while driving. I even sang and danced along to these beats as I turned the car steering around. Then one day, I realized that the lyrics of some songs were too racy and aggressive to the ears my child who was six years old back then. As well, listening to certain beats and songs made me irritated and impatient while maneuvering through congested roads. I am not too sure if this has anything to do with aging or the fact that traffic is getting out of control, or that drivers are becoming more aggressive. Regardless of the reason, I figured that might as well listen to different types of music to “Zen” my daily commute and that’s when I discovered the beauty of classical music.
How classical music affected our moods
As I trained my ears to listen to it in the car, I started to:
- Feel more relaxed and enjoy the car drive. For some reason, the lack of aggressive lyrics and banging beat was a bit distracting while driving. But the tunes of instrumental music improved my attention and increased patience level.
- Contrary to what people might think, this music didn’t make me fall asleep while driving! It is quite invigorating and stimulating to the senses. Because of the structured application of instruments, the mind starts to work on sorting out tunes by instrument. So as long as the mind is busy and focused on music, we won’t be falling asleep listening to classical music in the car.
- Classical music puts me in a happy state of mind. I think this is due to the fact that we all grew up listening to it in popular cartoons and movies. Yes if you pay attention to the old cartoons we watched like Bugs Bunny show or Star Wars movies you’ll realize these were classical tunes.
- I pay better attention to my surroundings and my speed limit. As strange as this may seem, I am more relaxed and chilled in the car and don’t feel inclined to press on the gas pedal while listening to classical music. As well I am much more cautious about my style of driving and more alert about driving conditions.
- I have dramatically improved my knowledge and fluency in classical music. I can tell the difference between Mozart, Beethoven, Verdi, and Chopin. And it’s something to pride ourselves with especially when we’re in the company of music lovers and enthusiasts.
- My child loves listening to classical music and can now enjoy piano lessons more so than ever. In fact, whenever he gets into my husband’s car, he requests switching to a classics station! I am hoping this will be a great habit he’ll adopt once he is legally allowed to drive.
Scientific backed health benefits of classical music
Because Classical Music helped me feel better, I’ve researched this topic and discovered some interesting health and wellness benefits to listening to instrumental tunes. The suggested list is based on numerous studies and scientific research:
- Classical music combats depression. Due to the rise of mental illnesses in recent years, more emphasis is placed on finding solutions to this problem. The calming tunes and structured composition of classical music helps ease anxiety and sadness. I highly support this suggestion based on my personal experience with classical music.
- It helps alleviate pain. Studies show classical music lowered pain in patients who suffer cancer, chronic pain or undergo surgery. For many of us women over 40, the hormonal changes can sometimes cause chronic pain and discomfort such as headaches, muscle aches, and back pain. My muscles and back feel less tensed while listening to classical music.
- As well, it reduces blood pressure. It makes total sense that if classical music reduces stress, then it should have a positive impact on blood pressure. What else causes blood pressure nowadays other than stress?
- It promotes sleep: This is not just a benefit to newborns but is a good option to combat insomnia for menopausal women over 40. Researchers recommend playing this sort of tunes in low volume while sleeping.
- It sparks creativity: I absolutely support this finding! Listening to Chopin or Mozart helps me feel calm, focused and happy which in turn improved my mental creativity.
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Music Boutique
In summary, classical music is a form of art for everyone and not reserved to a specific group of people, and you will come to realize it has been around us since birth, played in your favourite childhood cartoon and movie. It is a wonderful way to heel and nourish the mind. We can all learn to appreciate and enjoy over time as aform of self-care and a source of meditation. So do take the time to listen to at least one piece of classical music each day, whether in the car, public commute, at home while sipping your cup of coffee or tea, while enjoying a family meal, or taking a relaxing bath!
