As the darker months set in, many people begin to feel the effects of seasonal depression. In fact, Google searches for the term ‘depression season’ have risen by an incredible 11,900% year-on-year1, highlighting a surge in awareness and concern about how the change in seasons impacts our mental wellbeing.
In the UK, one in four adults will experience a mental health challenge each year2. While conversations around anxiety, burnout, and stress have become increasingly open, the question remains: what actually helps? Beyond therapy, mindfulness, and movement, research continues to show that music can be a powerful source of support.
Sophie Solomon, Music Expert at ROLI, shares her insights on how music can support wellbeing and boost brain health:
“There has always been a link between music and mental health and this is backed by science. Plenty of studies show that music has a positive effect on our mental well-being.
“In addition to reducing stress, anxiety, and even symptoms of depression, learning an instrument can stir deep emotions while improving mood and cognition, the mental processes involved in thinking, learning, and memory.”
However, playing an instrument isn’t a skill we all possess – but don’t worry, it seems that even an act as simple as singing in the shower can have a positive impact on wellbeing.
Sophie says, “Whilst we can’t stop the effects of ageing, music can help to slow the rate of cognitive decline. So whether that’s playing an instrument, singing in the shower, or regularly listening to your favourite songs, various regions in the brain will be stimulated, promoting neuroplasticity.
“Neuroplasticity, which is essentially your brain’s ability to adapt, helps you to maintain cognitive function and memory. By partaking in activities that promote mental agility, we help to keep our brains active and responsive. Much like our physical health, consistency and activity are essential to our overall wellness.”
Listening to your favourite music can be deemed a worthwhile endeavor after all. The easiest medicine to improve your mood and promote a healthy brain, turning on the radio shouldn’t be underestimated! However, Sophie believes the best way to get these results is by playing an instrument.
Sophie says, “Taking up an instrument can be a rewarding pastime and a great way to exercise the brain. Whichever instrument takes your interest, learning how to play allows you to engage with music on a deeper level, no matter how old you are when you begin. Learning to play the keyboard with ROLI Piano makes it incredibly easy to bring more musicality into your life to help reap all the mental health benefits music can provide.”
Here are a few simple ways to bring music into your everyday life:
- Start your day with music
Curate a great morning playlist with upbeat songs that will motivate you to start your day. Alternatively, replace your harsh alarm tone with a more gentle instrumental, or a soothing song.
- Add music to your movement
During your morning dog walk or daily commute, listen to music that matches your pace, or lifts your mood. The more rhythmic, the more energised you will feel.
- Use music to shape your workflow
Instrumental or low-lyric genres (such as lo-fi and classical) can help with concentration. On the other hand, music can also be utilised in your short break periods, as a way to refresh your mind.
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