The music we listen to affects our state of mind on a daily basis. We may not realize it when putting our headphones in, or turning up a speaker, but music completely changes our attitude. The tone of the music you listen to can ultimately influence the way you act and think. You might think this is common sense; that when you listen to a sad song you will be sad, or when you listen to a happy song you will be happy. However, what makes this interesting is that everyone listens to music differently. What you might hear, may be different for someone else.
Here at St. Joes, students are constantly listening to music. When walking across campus, sitting in the dining hall, studying, playing sports, and more, music is always being played. Studies have shown that music can relieve stress which is very necessary on a college campus. With this in mind, we know and realize that music can influence your mental health. Specifically, classical music is known to have a relaxing effect on our minds and bodies. This causes the heart rate and pulse to slow down, lower blood pressure, and decrease stress hormones. It is also known to help people focus academically.
While music can fill an awkward silent void, it completely uplifts the environment and the people in it. When walking pass Sweeney Field during a team warm up, energetic and exciting music plays so that the players can get pumped up for their game. This completely livens the players, the crowd, and the students in the area. Music also creates shared experiences. Now, all of these people who are exposed to music when simply being in close proximity to Sweeney Field, have a connection. Everyone listening to the same song together collectively changes the environment and everyone in it.
Although there are many ways music connects us, it is important to understand that not everyone thinks the same way about a certain song. To you, a song may be sad and depressing. But the person next to you may think that song is eye opening and sentimental. Musical differences are influenced by many things. For example, when asking, “what do you think about Cardi B’s song “I Like It”, someone may completely love the song, while others may completely hate it. If you are interested in learning more about this topic, check out this video.
Music is also used to bring people together. Concerts enable fans to come together and celebrate that artist and enjoy the sound of live music. Fan clubs are often formed to bring fans of a specific artist together. When singing together, people are united and proud. For example, when singing the national anthem before a baseball game, everyone is united together, even on opposing teams. Music is everywhere, and significantly influences our emotions and mental health.
The question, “What is your favorite song?” is often asked as an icebreaker because music can tell so much about a person. Think to your favorite song, and what that means to you. How would your life be different without that song? Or artist? Or album? Check out more content and contribute to the conversation on the SJU HawkChill Official Instagram.
