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Musical Therapy: Top 7 Advantages of Music Listening

man relaxing listening to music from headphones
man relaxing listening to music from headphones

Whenever I hit writer’s block, it feels like running headfirst into an invisible wall. One minute, words are flowing like a river; the next, they’re barely a dribble. Sitting there, staring at the blank page, I’m just yearning for something – anything to kickstart my creativity.

That’s when I lean on my secret weapon: music. But not just any tunes—I’m talking about the kind that stirs your soul. For me, it’s all about Led Zeppelin. When the well of creativity dries up, I slip on my headphones and let the mighty rhythms of ‘Stairway to Heaven’ or the electrifying guitar riffs of ‘Ramble On’ take over. It’s like a floodgate opens, and words start pouring out, filling the page with a wave of inspiration. It’s an undeniable testament to the profound potency of music.

This is not a unique revelation but a shared experience. Music, the universal language, touches hearts worldwide, eliciting emotions, igniting creativity, and providing solace. But did you know that there’s ample scientific evidence corroborating the exceptional benefits of music on your mind, body, and overall existence?

So, let’s explore the benefits of listening to music, a universal language that can uplift, heal, and inspire.

1. Brain Power

abstract music note in the shape of brain

Music, particularly classical, can enhance cognitive performance and improve memory and learning. A study by the University of California, Irvine, revealed that Mozart’s music significantly enhanced college students’ spatial reasoning skills1.

This “Mozart Effect” suggests that classical music could potentially boost brainpower. Furthermore, music with a strong beat can stimulate brainwaves to resonate synchronously with the beat, resulting in heightened concentration and alert thinking.

2. Happiness

cheerful older couple dancing happy in the kitchen

Music can evoke a wide range of emotions. It can move us to tears, induce happiness, or energize us. The therapeutic use of music for managing mood issues is gaining popularity. Studies show music can help diminish anxiety and depression, elevate self-esteem, and enhance mood2.

3. Stress Less

close up image of violin being played

Music’s stress-relieving properties are well-established. Slow, quiet classical music can have a calming effect, slowing heart rate, reducing blood pressure, and decreasing stress hormone levels. A study published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing found that music can reduce anxiety in hospital patients3.

4. Sweeter Dreams

above view of older woman peacefully sleeping in bed

Listening to music before bed can significantly improve sleep quality. Soft, soothing tunes can slow down the heart rate and reduce anxiety, helping your body prepare for rest. Music has the power to distract from stressful thoughts, guiding you into a peaceful state of mind conducive to sleep.

Studies have shown that classical music, in particular, can promote better sleep patterns4. So, incorporating a calming playlist into your bedtime routine might be just what you need for a good night’s sleep.

5. Turbocharge Performance

active woman stretching listening to music through headphones outdoors

Music can also augment physical performance by enhancing endurance, improving movement and coordination, and accelerating recovery. Studies show that listening to music during exercise can delay fatigue and intensify workouts5. Many athletes use music as a stimulant before competition to boost their performance.

6. Deepen Connections

friends playing instruments in band

Music can foster social connections and create communities. Musical activities unite people, whether singing in a choir, dancing at a concert, party, event, or club, or playing in a band, fostering social cohesion and mutual understanding.

7. Creativity Burst

woman focused painting

Finally, music can stimulate creativity. It can open the mind to new ideas and perspectives, fostering imagination and innovation. Many artists and writers draw inspiration from music for their creative endeavors.

Adaptogen Driven Inspiration

close up image of Dynamic Mushrooms supplement with foliage and mushrooms in background

The power of music extends far beyond simple entertainment. It catalyzes cognitive enhancement, emotional health, stress relief, physical performance boost, social bonding, and creativity stimulation.

Regardless of your preference, be it classical symphonies, jazz improvisations, or rock anthems, immersing yourself in your favorite melodies can unlock countless benefits.

To further amplify music’s tranquility and emotional balance, consider integrating adaptogenic mushrooms like those found in Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms into your daily life. Various cultures have revered these functional mushrooms for their ability to cultivate emotional well-being and manage stress.* Dynamic Mushrooms combines Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, Maitake, and Shiitake. Each of these mushrooms possesses adaptogenic properties, contributing to cognitive performance and immune support, stress resilience, and quality sleep.*  This all-encompassing blend saves you the trouble of finding each ingredient, offering a full spectrum of adaptogenic benefits in one convenient blend.

Sources:
1. Rauscher FH, Shaw GL, Ky KN. Nature. 1993 Oct 14;365(6447):611.
2. Dyer SM, et al. Int Psychogeriatrics. (2018) 30:295–309.
3. Int J Nurs Stud. 2016 Nov;63:82-100.
4. Chen, C-T., et al. 2021. Journal of American Geriatrics Society.
5. Karageorghis, C.I., & Priest, D.L. (2012). International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 5(1), 67-84
6. Why is music good for the brain? – Harvard Health | health.harvard.edu/blog/why-is-music-good-for-the-brain-2020100721062

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Adventures in Forgetfulness: 5 Common “Senior Moments” & What You Can Do About Them

senior man trying to combine puzzle, having memory problems, cognitive impairment
senior man trying to combine puzzle, having memory problems, cognitive impairment

What does it mean to have a senior moment?

As we journey through life, we sometimes have these mental hiccups, often called senior moments – those split-second memory lapses that catch us off guard. They pop up more often as we get older, bringing along a mix of chuckles, sighs, and more than a touch of worry.

The impact of these moments can occasionally lead to cringe-worthy scenarios, especially for those of us who are still actively engaged in the working world. After all, preserving our credibility matters, and we certainly don’t want the younger generation mistakenly assuming our sharpness is dulling.

It’s a topic that we of a certain age tend to discuss. In fact, the other day, I gathered with my buddies for a cozy chat about their very own ‘senior moment’ sagas. In the process, we collectively came up with the top “dreaded senior moments.”

Read on to discover a selection of anecdotes that feel uncannily relatable.

The Words Are Right There…

Senior business woman received applause from the audience while making speech in corporate seminar event with light effect. Selective focus.

Public speaking can be nerve-wracking on its own, but when your mind falters, and a seemingly simple word evades you mid-sentence, it’s a memory loss moment that can turn cheeks beet-red.

Patricia, a seasoned executive at 57, is celebrated for her eloquence and mastery over her field.

“I can face a firing squad of questions, but the thought of key terms slipping away mid-meeting? Terrifying!” Patricia explained, her voice tinged with mock horror.

The more you focus on trying to remember, the further the words slip away, leading to awkward pauses and a feeling of vulnerability.

Why Am I Standing Here?

Elderly mature tourist man walking along street, confused looking at map

Have you ever entered a room with a clear purpose, only to encounter a mental blank the moment you cross the threshold? It’s like stepping into a maze without a map. That fleeting moment of confusion can leave you feeling momentarily adrift.

Meet George, a lively 70-year-old accountant on the brink of retirement. Experiencing this in front of colleagues at the firm is downright embarrassing for him.

“You’d think I’d have a reason for being in the conference room, right?” he chuckles, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. “Not knowing why I’m somewhere is just the worst.” It’s a blend of frustration and confusion, a gentle reminder of the whimsical ways our minds can occasionally trip us up.

Sorry, I Can’t Recall Your Name.

Sad young adult woman grown up daughter or grandkid sitting on sofa hugging desperate, grieving, frustrated elderly mom or grandma having problems with mental health

Imagine this scenario: you’re at a gathering, and a familiar face catches your eye across the room. Your heart sinks as you draw a blank on their name, even though you’ve known them for years. Your mind races, scrambling to retrieve the information.

Martha, who’s friendly with everyone and typically has everyone’s name at her fingertips, shared a similar experience. She recounted the last time she ran into her longtime neighbor. “I was all set to say hello, and poof, the name vanished,” Martha laughed. It’s as if the name had evaporated into thin air, leaving her grappling with an odd sense of unease.

Racing to the Wedding

Confused Senior Man With Looking At Wall Calendar

A friend’s birthday party, a family gathering, a doctor’s appointment, or an anniversary – you’ve diligently marked them on your calendar and set reminders. Yet somehow, the event manages to slip your mind until it’s nearly too late.

Richard, a dedicated family man who orchestrates events with meticulous care, recounted a time when he completed blanked on his cousin’s daughter’s wedding. “It’s as if the universe decided to play a little trick on me,” he sighed, then added, “You know, all that careful planning, and my brain just had a glitch.”

Fortunately, it all rushed back to him when he saw his wife in an evening gown, ready to go. “Thank goodness I didn’t miss the vows.” he laughed. The realization struck like an unexpected jolt, leaving him flustered and apologetic. It’s a memory lapse that humbly reminds us of our own human fallibility.

The Elusive Passwords + Pins

Frustrated tired senior man touching head at laptop

“I can pinpoint a needle in a haystack, but my debit card’s pin? Vanished!” Emily quipped, recalling the time she held up a line at the grocery store. “Nothing says ‘performance anxiety’ like a blank mind and impatient shoppers.”

In today’s digital age, passwords are the keys to our virtual lives. Yet, it’s astonishing how often we find ourselves staring at a login screen, unable to recall the combination of characters that grant us access. The frustration amplifies as we attempt various permutations, hoping that muscle memory will kick in and unlock the forgotten secret.

Top 8 Ways To Deal With Senior Moments

Senior woman with grey hair standing over white background clueless and confused expression with arms and hands raised. doubt concept.

Senior Moments may be normal, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do something about them.

1. Stay Physically Active

Smiling senior couple jogging in the park
Smiling senior couple jogging in the park

Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which can help improve memory and cognitive function.

2. Mindful Nutrition

Health in your brain. Fresh vegetables in woman head symbolizing health nutrition on gray background, panorama, copy space

A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and nutrients, including B vitamins, that can promote brain health. Foods like fish, nuts, berries, and leafy greens have been linked to cognitive benefits.

3. Mental Stimulation

Hands of two senior women doing puzzles. socializing with friends at home.

Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as puzzles, reading, learning a new skill, or even playing musical instruments. Mental stimulation helps keep your mind sharp and can potentially reduce memory lapses.

4. Adequate Sleep

Old man sleeping in bed in the morning, recovery time and healthy sleep

Prioritize quality sleep, as it plays a crucial role in memory consolidation. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support optimal cognitive function.

5. Stay Social

Senior Group Friends Exercise Relax Concept

Interacting with friends and family and participating in group activities stimulates the brain.

6. Hydration

water from jug pouring into glass on wooden table outdoors

Dehydration can negatively impact brain function. Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day to maintain optimal cognitive performance.

7. Stay Curious

art school, creativity and people concept - happy senior woman artist with easel and pencil drawing picture at studio

Maintain a curious mindset by exploring new hobbies, learning, and staying open to new experiences. Curiosity keeps your brain engaged and active.

8. Brain-Supporting Supplements

dynamic brain supplement on with a chess set and books in background

Certain supplements are designed with specific functional ingredients and combinations of vitamins and minerals to support brain health.

One such brain health supplement is Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Brain™, which offers a comprehensive blend of 40 brain health ingredients. These include multivitamins, including the essential B vitamins, Huperzine A, Bacopa Extract, DHA, Phosphatidylserine, and L-Tyrosine.  By incorporating a daily dose of Dynamic Brain, you can effectively support your brain health, optimize cognitive function, and help maintain your precious memories.*

Remember that occasional memory lapses are a natural part of aging. Still, these proactive steps can help mitigate their impact and keep your mind sharp and engaged as you navigate through life’s journey. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant lifestyle changes.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Rest Easy: 8 Tips for Getting the Best Sleep While Traveling

Traveling can be exciting and rewarding but comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest challenges? Getting a good night’s sleep, especially when you’re staying with family and friends.

Whether on a business trip, exploring new places, or visiting loved ones, getting quality sleep is crucial for maintaining energy, focus, and your overall well-being. That’s where this blog comes in. Keep reading to discover valuable tips and strategies to help you get the best sleep possible while traveling.

From creating the perfect sleep environment to establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, we’ll reveal the secrets to a peaceful night’s sleep that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on your travel adventures. Say goodbye to sleepless nights and hello to restful slumber.

Choose Accommodations Wisely 

Let’s face it, saying goodbye to your comfy bed and hello to an uncomfortable couch, guest room, or a dreaded pull-out can be tricky. If you’re lucky, you might get a comfortable mattress and your room, but more often than not, you’ll find yourself tossing and turning all night.

The only way to have a fantastic travel experience is by choosing the perfect place to stay for a restful night’s sleep. Instead of bunking in someone’s home, opt for accommodations focusing on comfort, peace, and convenience. Look for features like blackout curtains, cozy beds, and soundproofing that will help ensure a good night’s rest.

If you can’t get to sleep, consider booking a room away from busy areas or using white noise machines or earplugs to drown out any disturbances. By prioritizing your rest, you’ll have a much more enjoyable time during your travels.

Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment 

Transform your temporary sleeping space into a haven of relaxation by paying attention to the sleep environment. Keep the room cool, dark, and quiet. Use an eye mask to block out light, earplugs, or a noise machine to minimize external noise. If the room lacks proper temperature control, adjust it using the thermostat, fan, or portable heater, depending on your preferences.

Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule 

Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help regulate your internal clock, so it’s easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even when traveling across time zones. This will help your body adjust more smoothly and minimize the effects of jet lag.

Establish a Bedtime Routine 

A bedtime routine signals your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Adapt your routine to your travel circumstances. Incorporate activities such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, practicing relaxation techniques, or listening to calming music. Avoid engaging in stimulating activities or using electronic devices emitting blue light, as it can interfere with sleep.

Prioritize Comfortable Sleepwear and Bedding 

Pack comfortable sleepwear and bring your own pillow if possible. Familiar bedding and sleepwear can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, promoting better sleep. Opt for breathable fabrics that suit the climate, ensuring you don’t overheat or feel too cold at night.

Manage Stress and Relax Before Bed 

Traveling can sometimes be stressful, affecting your ability to relax and fall asleep. Prioritize stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching before bed. Consider using relaxation apps or guided sleep meditation recordings to help calm your mind and prepare for restful sleep.

Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Intake 

Be aware of your caffeine and alcohol consumption, as both can disrupt your sleep patterns. Limit caffeine in the afternoon and evening, as its stimulating effects can make it difficult to fall asleep. While alcohol may initially make you drowsy, it can disrupt the quality of your sleep, causing disturbances and reducing the restorative aspects of rest.

Stay Active and Get Natural Light 

To enhance the quality of your sleep at night, staying active and seeking natural light during the day can be highly beneficial. Regular physical activity helps tire your body and promotes better sleep patterns. Engage in activities like walking, jogging, or cycling to stimulate your body and mind.

Additionally, exposure to natural light is crucial in regulating your internal body clock, known as the circadian rhythm. Spend time outdoors to absorb sunlight, especially in the morning, which helps set your sleep-wake cycle. Natural light exposure boosts serotonin production, a hormone that promotes relaxation and melatonin production for better sleep quality.

So, prioritize staying active and basking in natural light throughout the day to enjoy more restful nights and wake up refreshed and rejuvenated each morning.

Supplementing Your Relaxation

An emerging trend in the realm of relaxation is the use of adaptogens. These natural substances aid in building resilience to the physical and mental impacts of stress, fostering a greater sense of tranquility.(1-2)  Among the extensively studied adaptogens, functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Maitake, and Reishi have gained attention.

Stonehenge Health® has formulated Dynamic Mushrooms™ by expertly combining Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Maitake, Reishi, and Shiitake mushrooms. Incorporating Dynamic Mushrooms™ into a holistic lifestyle can enhance your ability to adapt to physical and mental stressors while bolstering brain function, supporting the immune system, and naturally boosting energy levels.*

Sources:
1. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2017 Aug;1401(1):49-64.
2. Liao LY et al. Chin Med. 2018 Nov 16;13:57.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.