Ready your PLAYLIST because today, we’re going on a journey towards living a healthier and more colorful life!

Friday: Mindfulness by Miles FROM THE DESK OF MILES EVERSON: Welcome to “Mindfulness by Miles!” I hope you’re having a great day so far. Every Friday, I publish articles about health and mindfulness to help you improve your well-being. For today, I will talk about music and its health benefits. Interested to know more? Keep reading below. CEO, MBO Partners Chairman of the Advisory Board, The I Institute

Ready your PLAYLIST because today, we’re going on a journey towards living a healthier and more colorful life! Listening to music is an activity you can do whether you’re on the morning commute, cooking breakfast, or spending time with friends. In fact, playing music is something you can do anytime of the day! Did you know music is not just a form of entertainment but is also good for your health? Multiple studies have shown that listening to music can help individuals cope with stressful situations and keep them motivated. Additionally, research projects conducted a few years ago have shown that music can lessen the impact of depression and anxiety. Personally, listening to music puts me in a good mood. Doing so makes me sing, dance, and wear my heart out to my satisfaction. Have you also personally experienced the positive benefits of listening to music? If you have, great! For those of you who are curious what these benefits are, check out the list below: Music can improve your cognitive performance. Studies show that music improves individuals’ memory and sense of focus. In a Harvard Medical School study, two elderly people gained a higher score on memory tests after they finished weekly classes involving music and physical exercise. Also, the documentary “Alive Inside” showcased music’s ability to help those afflicted with dementia in revitalizing areas of the brain related to speech and memory. Lastly, listening to music stimulates brain activity, helping an individual remain alert and retain his or her focus more effectively. Music can help you sleep better. According to a Sleep Foundation article, studies show that adults are able to sleep better when they listen to music 45 minutes before bedtime. The studies also highlight music’s ability to help release dopamine, a hormone associated with happiness. Music can reduce stress and improve your mood. According to a Healthline article, “the body releases less cortisol, a stress hormone, when people listen to music.” Additionally, it's been found that listening to songs allows a person to relax and manage negative emotions more effectively. Researchers from the University of Nevada also discovered that music performed through Native American, Indian, and Celtic instruments are the ones that reduce stress the best. Drums and flutes are also effective at relaxing the mind. Clearly, the music you enjoy listening to each day isn't just a form of entertainment; it's a key player in your health! So, whether it's sharpening your mind, improving your sleep, or reducing stress, keep in mind that the tunes you enjoy have a positive impact on your well-being. The next time you hit play, remember that you're not just listening to music; you're also helping yourself become happier and healthier. See you in next week’s “Mindfulness by Miles” for another awesome health and mindfulness-related tip!