World Music Day: For these celebs, music is therapeutic & ultimate stress buster

In a world filled with bustling routines and increasing stress levels, music emerges as a resounding savior, offering solace and tranquility to weary souls. Beyond its enchanting melodies and captivating rhythms, music holds a remarkable ability to heal, rejuvenate, and serve as a powerful stress buster. On World Music Day, ETimes got in touch with some of our favourite stars to know what they think about the profound therapeutic benefits of music, its psychological and physiological impacts, as well as its ability to foster emotional well-being.

For Iman Chakraborty, melody, the heart of music, possesses a remarkable ability to transport us to a different realm. According to her, “It has been scientifically proven that listening to soothing melodies can slow down our heart rate, lower blood pressure, and reduce anxiety levels. From classical compositions to ambient tunes, each melody has its unique way of resonating with our emotions and inducing a sense of calmness.”

Ritabhari Chakraborty believes that music possesses an innate quality that taps into our emotions, transcending language barriers and resonating with our deepest sentiments. “Through melody, rhythm, and harmonies, music communicates directly with our brains, evoking emotional responses and triggering the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. This chemical cascade induces feelings of pleasure, reduces stress hormone levels, and enhances our overall sense of well-being,” shares the ‘Fatafati’ actor who has always been vocal about the importance of mental well-being.

Ace singer-composer Anupam Roy shares, “Music therapy, a recognized form of treatment, employ the power of music to address a range of mental and physical health conditions. From reducing anxiety and depression to aiding in pain management and improving cognitive function, music therapy has proven beneficial for individuals of all ages. Whether it involves listening to carefully curated playlists or engaging in interactive sessions with trained therapists, music therapy offers a holistic approach to well-being.”

The rhythmic nature of music holds tremendous therapeutic potential. Madhumita Sarcar says that engaging with rhythm through activities like drumming, dancing, or even tapping our fingers in sync with a beat can synchronize neural pathways in the brain. “It promotes a state of relaxation and reduces stress. The repetitive patterns in music can create a meditative state, distracting our minds from worries and offering a cathartic escape from the daily pressures of life,” feels the actor.

According to actor Sandipta Sen who studied psychology, music acts as a medium for emotional expression, allowing individuals to release and process their feelings. She explains, “Whether we seek solace in melancholic tunes during times of grief or dance joyfully to vibrant beats, music becomes a channel for catharsis. Songwriting and composing music also serve as creative outlets, enabling individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and personal narratives. By connecting with the emotions conveyed in music, individuals can find solace and validation for their own experiences.”

In a world where stress is pervasive, music emerges as an unwavering companion, offering solace and serving as a therapeutic stress buster. Its unique ability to tap into our emotions, synchronize neural pathways, and provide a medium for emotional expression makes it an invaluable tool for mental and physical well-being. So, the next time life feels overwhelming, let music be your guide, leading you to a realm of tranquility and respite.