A recent survey by the AARP revealed some interesting findings about the impact of music on cognitive and emotional well-being. Their findings included the following:
- Higher scores for mental well-being were found with those that listened to music.
- Music listeners had slightly reduced levels of anxiety and depression compared to people overall.
- People with active music engagement including those over age 50 had higher rates of happiness and good cognitive function.
In relation to ketamine, the brain is neuroplastic. It is building new pathways in your brain during infusion and for a time afterwards. Music activates much of the brain. The brain pathways are strengthened when they are used and weakened when they are not used. Music reinforces the new pathways that are formed during ketamine. Music promotes well-being, enhances learning, stimulates cognitive function, improves quality of life and can even induce happiness. Other overall benefits of music include:
- Increased relaxation.
- Helps you explore your emotions.
- Strengthens self-confidence.
- Improves quality of life.
- Reduces perceived levels of pain.
- Builds social skills.
- Regulations mood.
- Improves speaking and language skills.
- Helps you improve and form healthy coping skills.
- Improves physical coordination, motor functions and movements.
At our clinic, we encourage music during infusions. It can be the patient’s own playlist, or we have playlists available. Neutral-sounding, ambient music such as classical, piano, or meditative music is best. We recommend the playlist be at least 60 minutes long. Please turn your phone on “Do not disturb” and subscribe to get the version without ads. If you are googling for a playlist, look for Ketamine Infusion Music, Calming Music, Meditation playlist, Piano Music or Instrumentals.
