Music Relieves Stress and Anxiety
One of the main ways that music affects blood pressure is through its ability to
reduce stress and anxiety levels. Stress and anxiety are known to contribute to elevated blood pressure, and reducing these feelings can lead to a reduction in blood pressure. Listening to calming music can have a soothing effect on the body and can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. This can lead to a reduction in blood pressure and an overall improvement in cardiovascular health.
In addition to reducing stress and anxiety, music can also have a direct effect on blood pressure. Studies have shown that slow, calming music can help to lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. This effect is thought to be due to the relaxing effect that music has on the body, which can lead to a reduction in blood pressure.
Music and Heart Health
Furthermore, music can also have a positive effect on heart rate variability (HRV), which is an important indicator of cardiovascular health. HRV refers to the variation in time between successive heartbeats, and a high HRV is associated with better cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that listening to music, particularly slow, calming music, can lead to an increase in HRV, which can have a positive effect on blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.
What Types of Music Lower Blood Pressure?
The type of music that is most effective in lowering blood pressure and reducing stress levels varies from person to person. However, research has shown that slow, calming music, such as classical or instrumental music, is generally the most effective. The tempo of the music should be slow, with a beat per minute (BPM) of around 60-80. This is because this tempo is similar to the resting heart rate of most people, which can help to synchronize the heartbeat with the music and lead to a calming effect on the body.
However, and it's a big however, musical tastes are widely different and hugely subjective between people. People who do not typically listen to classical music, which can oftentimes be complex and require full attention, may actually cause listeners mild anxiety as they try to capture everything that is happening. Minimalist electronic music or instrumental "lofi trap beats" may be something that younger generations turn to for this comfort.
Additionally, as mentioned, musical preference is purely subjective. To those who do not listen to metal music, they will not understand the sounds, or the lyrics, or the essence of the music and may become stressed out. However, those that do enjoy and understand metal music may experience a change in stress and anxiety levels. Metal music is known to be a great outlet for frustration, anger, stress, etc. Metal music also has a very strong community behind it, and this comradery only increases the likelihood of ensuring better blood pressure.
An informal study was performed, and showed that metal music decreases stress and overall anxiety blood pressure. Something to think about! As a metal fan, I can assure you it's a very healthy way to expel stressful energy!