Music is one of the most diverse categories of entertainment existing today. Music is divided into endless genres which contain even more sub-genres. Your taste is like your personality: completely unique and like no other. Everyone is drawn to distinct types of music based on their personality. Everyone has specific music that calms them down, helps them focus, clears their mind or hypes them up.  

According to an article by the University of Nevada, “Music can have a profound effect on both the emotions and the body.” In addition, researchers at Stanford University claim that “listening to music seems to be able to change brain functioning to the same extent as medication.”

A WebMD article lists a couple effective ways to put music to use as a stress reliever. One way is to create playlists based on your different moods. Fill these playlists with music that match the vibe you are putting off and that helps express your mood further. If you are feeling anxious are sad, start off listening to a playlist that describes those feelings and then gradually shift to brighter, happier music. This is a technique widely used by therapists to help subtly and effectively boost your mood.  

Another way to use music as a stress reliever is simply to listen to calm, soothing music. Now if you are a heavy metal person, you may have trouble knowing where to begin with calming music. As previously mentioned, there are infinite genres within a genre. You could try classical, acoustic, or even less contemporary calming music like soft rock and pop, or country. Research shows that music with a tempo around 60 beats per minute is the best for relaxation.  

If you are someone who struggles with depression or anxiety, or who simply has been feeling overcome with stress, I encourage you to try using music to help you through these bleak times. You may be skeptical, but trust me, just give it a try.