Sound eases stress by triggering relaxation. It switches off the body’s stress response. This helps to neutralize anxiety and ease depression. Listening to sound lowers blood pressure and heart rate. It triggers the release of “feel good” biochemicals. And, it boosts the immune system. Sound jumpstarts brain activity. It even generates new pathways in the brain.

The notion of sound as medicine has deep roots in human history. Ancient tribal rituals and hospital music programs have used sound to promote health and wellbeing. 

Why? Because heart disease, diabetes, chronic skin conditions, addiction, mental health issues, and cancer have something in common – a link to stress. Sound benefits these conditions by easing stress.

Easing the fight-flight-freeze response

Under stress, the body’s parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) pushes us into a fight-flight-freeze response . This natural pathway plays an important evolutionary role in survival. Today, we’re rarely in extreme physical danger. Nevertheless, the PNS still reacts to intense emotions and stressful situations. 

Over time, the PNS wreaks havoc on the body. Chronic stress leads to an absence of ease – a chronic state of dis-ease. Ultimately, it may lead to the real thing. 

“Sound can play a role in virtually any medical disorder, since it redresses imbalances on every level of physiologic functioning.”
– Dr. Mitchell Gaynor, oncologist

The truth is, you already reaping the benefits of sound. Have you ever sung or hummed a favourite tune to lift your spirits? Poured your anger into a raging rendition of a rock song? Shed tears over a love ballad? A Prevention magazine survey found that 82% of people who listen to music to ease stress reported significant relief. 

Do you prefer Beethoven, hip hop or a robin’s song? It doesn’t matter. Sound balances the five elements of consciousness. Good vibrations help to realign body, mind, emotions, spirit and soul.