Music and Art Increase Brain Power

 "Music is so naturally united with us that we cannot be free from it even if we so desired" (Boethius cited by Storr).

 

Music is an integral part of the human spirit. It can trigger very strong emotional memories, feelings and reactions - something everyone has experienced. I can't imagine life without music - can you?

 

Music is a powerful stimulant for the brain. It can affect memory and concentration. Thomas Jefferson claimed that it helped him write the Declaration of Independence. Albert Einstein's mother gave him violin lessons to help him overcome his learning problems as a child. Even in his adult years when he was working with the mysteries of the universe, he used the violin to help him think. Those are two of the world's great thinkers, and there are probably many more who have relied on music as a catalyst to genius.

 

Learning to play an instrument or voice lessons are extremely stimulating to the brain because learning the techniques involved activates the left brain, while the music itself activates the right brain. Studies have shown that an experience that requires use of both sides of the brain at the same time produce a greater capability in processing information - this is brain power at its best.

 

Michael Posner, professor emeritus at the University of Oregon reported that [musical] training can strengthen regions of the brain linked to attention, self-control and general intelligence. He has also speculated that the focus-intensive tasks involved in developing skill in any of the arts may provide some of the same effects.

 

Two ways you can use the arts for a healthier, more powerful brain.

 

1. Use music to relieve stress - When you are overly tired and anxious because of mounting pressures at work, family problems, financial concerns, or any other of the myriad factors that create stress, take the time to listening to music. It is one of the best, no-cost therapies for dealing with stress.

 

Stress is a natural part of life that cannot be eliminated; but, it can be managed. One way to manage stress is by participating in activities that reduce physical, emotional, and mental pressures, all of which are potentially harmful to your brain. Listening to music is one of the best activities available for this purpose.

 

Choose a music genre that speaks to you. Think only about the music. Let it take you away from your concerns as you concentrate on the melody, the amazing arrangement, or the instrumentals. Sing along, or bounce to the beat. The purpose is to enjoy it so completely that you begin to relax. Stay with it long enough until you feel refreshed. It may be five minutes or 30 minutes, depending on the level of stress. You can alternate rhythmic tracks with more mellow ones. The goal is for the music to be therapeutic, not overly stimulating. Music therapy can be used any time of the day - at home, in the car, or at work.

 

Soothing, relaxing music before bed is an excellent natural sedative. It can help you fall asleep more easily and rest better throughout the night.

 

When thoughtfully selected and used in these ways, music eases the tired mind, an important factor in increasing mind power. A healthy, rested brain gives you the pleasure of thinking clearly, staying sharp and having the ability to tap into your creative well.

 

2. Try your hand at drawing - artistic talent is not required! Drawing is a delightful way to express yourself, especially when you are doing it for your own pleasure. Don't make it about the quality of the painting - that is not the point! The goal is to have fun and to stimulate your brain for the purpose of increasing mind power in a creative, fun, and relaxing way.

 

If possible, invest in a big sketching pad so you can draw more on a single page. Capture your moods and emotions on paper. Use lots of color and bold, unrestrained strokes of the pen, pencil or brush. Draw whenever the inclination strikes or in small moments of free time. Draw when you are happy, sad, angry, or frustrated. Get it all out.

 

As with music, drawing can be great therapy, stress reliever, and a phenomenal brain booster. Your brain will work hard to help you express your thoughts and feelings with lines, shapes, and colors.

 

These are only two of the many ways that the arts can be used to increase brain power. Be creative and find other ways to nurture the health of your mind and body through though engagement in the arts.

 

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