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Calming more than the savage beast

The soothing sounds of music have been proven to reduce the chance of stroke. Music has also shown to bring about an increase in verbal memory, focused attention and positive moods. Although it has always been known to ‘calm the savage beast’, this is the first study to prove the effects on humans.
In this particular study, 60 patients were exposed to the sweet sounds of soothing music. The groups listened to daily music which had been personally selected from classical, pop, jazz or folk as well as audio books. A control group, however, received nothing but standard stroke rehab.
After three to six months post-stroke, verbal memory improved by 60 percent in those who had listened to the music. It also improved by 18 percent for those who listened to audio books. A focused attention and a renewed ability to perform mental exercises also resulted as well as the ability to resolve conflicts. Additionally, researchers found that the music listeners had less depression than the others in the control group. The fact that the songs often had lyrics suggests that the combination of voice and music was crucial to the patients’ verbal recovery.
Although these results are promising, scientists warn not to jump to conclusions. Although music works for some, it should not be considered a substitute for other therapies. It is best used as an addition to speech therapy or neuro-psychology.

Source: University of Helsinki

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