You might be surprised at the type of music that was best for reducing stress and anxiety by reducing your heart rate and blood pressure. 80′s pop and Heavy Metal, according to a study of 1,540 people between the ages of 18-65, was the best at calming you down.
Vera Clinic, a Turkish hair restoration clinic, conducted the study by having people listen to various Spotify playlists as they completed written tests. The goal was to find out which types of music not only reduced stress and anxiety but which ones increased it as well. Techno was at the bottom of the list for reducing stress. 70′s Classic Rock and Dubstep Classics were close to the bottom as well.
Doctor Ömer Avlanmış conducted the study and explained that the results, although seem surprising actually make sense medically. He broke down like this, ’80s pop hits could have positive nostalgia attached to them for many people, and their upbeat, party-like sounds can induce the release of endorphins and serotonin in the brain, both increasing feelings of happiness and calm.” He continues, “In terms of heavy metal, I’d observe that angry music can help listeners process their feelings and as a result lead to greater well-being.”
So, if you are stressed and anxious, crank it up and take Frankie Goes To Hollywood’s advice – “RELAX”!
— Doug O’Brien
