Learning how to play one or more musical instruments can do a lot more than entertain you, your friends, and family. It also can help to improve your mental health. No matter how young or old you might be, there are many healthful benefits to learning to play an instrument. Here’s a closer look at a few of the mental health benefits that you might obtain when taking instrument lesson classes.
Improve Memory Recall
Learning to read music and play an instrument can stimulate your memory. According to PubMed, music intervention therapy over six weeks improved children’s memory recall. Many adults likewise enjoy better memory recall when learning how to play an instrument and practicing due to the mental stimulation it gives them.
Decrease in Depressive Episodes
Depression can be debilitating, but an instrument lesson can help to improve your general outlook. According to the National Library of Medicine, learning to read music and playing an instrument helps to improve self-esteem and a sense of independence. It also helps to lower individuals’ feelings of isolation.
Alleviate Stress and Anxiety
Learning and practicing a musical instrument also helps to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Playing the piano or another musical instrument can help to instantly provide the player with feelings of calm and tranquility. The lower levels of stress and anxiety improve physical and mental health and enable practicing musicians to feel better.
Counteract Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Participation in a regular instrument lesson once a week helps to alleviate the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related depression. According to PubMed Central, military veterans diagnosed with PTSD and depression benefit from a weekly group instrument lesson that enables them to focus on learning to play guitar. While practicing and learning, they also have the opportunity to share their feelings and experiences with other veterans while clearing their minds.
Improve Manual Dexterity
Improving mental health also improves manual dexterity. According to the National Library of Medicine, learning to play an instrument can do both by improving the sensorimotor cortex within the brain. The improvement in mental health translates into greater manual dexterity, which is necessary when learning to play an instrument.
Whether you’re looking for a mental health boost or are simply interested in learning a new instrument, you’ve come to the right place. You can learn more and sign up for a recurring instrument lesson when you call or visit our music shop!