Study: 38 people took part in the experiment.
A new study by scientists from the Yale School of Medicine has found that listening to music during meditation exercises can ease symptoms of anxiety and depression. The experts studied how such exercises affect the brain and heart, and concluded that they can be an affordable way to combat psychological problems.
The experiment, published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience, involved 38 people from the local community. They attended classes at the BLOOM center in New Haven, where a facilitator and a musician led musical meditation sessions. Participants wore sensors to measure their heart rate and brain activity. The sessions featured original music created in the lab, with a live musician adding improvisation.
The results showed that the combination of music and meditation activated the nervous system, reduced stress levels, and altered states of consciousness. Live sessions also promoted stronger social connections between participants, which was not observed in virtual sessions, suggesting that in-person presence and interaction play an important role in such practices.
Scientists have noted that musical meditation affects physiological processes in the brain and heart, which can help treat anxiety and depression. According to them, such methods are especially valuable because they are simple, inexpensive and can be adapted to a wide range of people. This makes them a promising tool for public programs to support mental health.
News materials should not be equated with a doctor’s prescription. Consult a specialist before making a decision.Source: Medical Xpress
