03/19/08 How Do You Become a Chiropractor? Don't worry if you don't know the answer. Read full version

02/01/08 You Are Awesome!! It's about time you gave yourself a really good look. Read full version

01/27/08 All Stressed Out? If you're all stressed out, we have some information that might... Read full version

01/07/08 Reduce Muscle Aches In A Flash Small postural changes can go a long way in reducing muscle... Read full version

Is There A Connection Between Music and Mood?
by Dr. David L. Wick, D.C.

Anyone who's ever heard of "mood music" already knows that there is a connection between music and peoples' emotions. The interesting research on the emotional ties of music proves that there is much deeper connection between the two than most people recognize. Such being the case, the music we listen to deserves a second "look."

The connections between music and healing have been recognized by healers worldwide for millenia. Music has been frequently used to achieve states of relaxation, stress reduction, alleviating insomnia, overcoming fears and phobias, and many other uses as well. Several healers use music to improve their patients' life energy levels.

I first became interested in the effects of music on the mind when I heard evidence that listening to Mozart's compositions could temporarily increase IQ. From that point on, whenever I wanted to be a productive student, I put on Mozart's music. Because of that information, I now have several of CDs of his compositions played by a wide variety of artists. I've also been thrilled to see expecting mothers playing Mozart for their developing babies. At least in theory, the energizing and soothing qualities of Mozart's music could provide for much better development for one's mental capacities and emotional states.

While attending chiropractic college, I became aware of the music available from Advanced Brain Technologies. Their research led to the formation of numerous musical compilations to achieve certain mental/emotional effects. These were released under the "Sound Health" CD series which includes such titles as Music for Concentration, Music to De-Stress, Music for Learning, and Music for Motivation. They also released a number of selections within the "Music for Babies" series including Sleepy Baby, Peaceful Baby, Cheerful Baby and Playful Baby. All of their research and products are geared toward maximizing human potential and may be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Just as music can have positive effects, it is also able to create negative effects. Many forms of music have been demonstrated to have negative impacts on peoples' energy levels, moods and performance. Hence it is very important to select carefully the music one listens to.

Next time you are browsing the music store, be very aware that the lyrics and musical form of the CD you're tempted to buy could have much deeper impact on your well-being than you might think. If you are able to listen to some selections from the CDs you're considering, be very mindful of the effects they have on you. Note your mentality and emotional states as the music plays. Also note any physical effects you might feel. Perhaps the music you're listening to stimulates and energizes you giving you strength to perform at the highest levels of your ability. On the other hand, if the music you're listening to inspires negative emotions, energy drain and lethargy, you know that it is not a CD deserving repeated play.

Music is therapy and must not be thought of as simple amusement. Whatever we listen to dramatically changes our lives. Make sure that the tunes you play are those that give you a "tune-up."