In the UK, 1 in 4 adults faces a mental-health challenge each year, according to the charity Mind. As people increasingly discuss anxiety, burnout and stress, researchers highlight music as a powerful tool for mental well-being. From reducing stress to supporting cognitive function, music offers accessible benefits; and singing in the shower has emerged as a simple but effective practice.
The science behind music and mental health
Sophie Solomon, music expert at ROLI, explains: “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.”
Research shows that music engagement (including singing and listening) reduces cortisol levels, a key stress hormone. Music also activates brain regions tied to emotion and memory, supporting mental agility. Even simple acts like singing in the shower can stimulate these benefits.
Music for cognitive health
“While we can’t stop the effects of ageing, music can help to slow the rate of cognitive decline,” Solomon says. “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.”
For those not musically inclined, listening to one’s favourite songs can still improve mood and cognition. Music activates reward centres in the brain, boosting dopamine release. Turning on the radio or curating a playlist can therefore be a simple mood-lift.
But playing an instrument offers the most significant benefits. “Taking up an instrument can be a rewarding pastime and a great way to exercise the brain,” she says. “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.”
Practical ways to incorporate music
You don’t need to be an expert to integrate music into your daily routine. Here are some suggestions:
- Start your day with music: Curate a morning playlist of upbeat songs or replace harsh alarm tones with gentle instrumentals to ease into the day.
- Add music to your movement: During walks or commutes choose music that matches your pace or lifts your mood. Rhythmic tracks can boost energy and enhance physical and mental vitality.
- Use music to shape your workflow: Instrumental or low-lyric genres such as lo-fi or classical can aid concentration. During breaks, tuning into music can refresh the mind and improve focus and productivity.
The accessibility of music makes it a universal tool for mental health. Whether through singing in the shower, listening to a playlist, or learning an instrument, these practices can enhance cognitive function and emotional resilience. As Solomon notes, consistency is key to maintaining a healthy brain, much like physical exercise supports the body.