Instant Genius The new science of music as medicine
Jun 26, 2025
Stefan Koelsch, a neuroscientist, musician, and author of "Good Vibrations: Unlocking the Healing Power of Music," discusses the incredible effects of music on our health. He explores how music can enhance brain function and emotional well-being, revealing its role in helping stroke patients recover speech and mobility. Koelsch delves into the neurochemical magic of music, highlighting its power to bond communities and reduce anxiety, and emphasizes the cognitive benefits of playing music in keeping our brains youthful and engaged.
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Music's Brain-Wide Emotional Impact
- Music activates core emotion structures throughout the brain, not just a single area.
- This widespread activation is key to music's healing power in balancing dysfunctional emotional systems.
Music Motivates and Connects Us
- Music directly affects brainstem vitalization centers, motivating or calming us.
- It fosters social bonding by enabling synchronized group music-making, fulfilling our deep need to belong.
Groovy Beat and Body Movement
- People use groovy beats with off-beats to physically stabilize the music's pulse by moving along.
- Our bodies help predict and align with music's rhythm for motivation and engagement.
