The physical and mental benefits of playing music have long been recognized. The piano, in particular, has been an excellent outlet for patients, creative expression, and those seeking a fun, relaxing hobby.
But, in recent years, the benefits of playing the piano have only seen more evident— linking piano playing to a healthy body, a healthy mind, and a healthy life.
— February 25th, 2020
Below we will go over a few of the newfound, and forever known, benefits of playing a musical instrument like the piano:
1. Improves the body
Even though you’re sitting down, playing the piano is a workout all its own, and offers different physical and physiological advantages to players of all ages.
Furthermore, research has shown that piano lessons for older adults have a significant impact on increased levels of Human Growth Hormone, which slows the adverse effects of aging.
2. Sharpen the intellect
Piano practice also boosts cognitive and intellectual abilities. Meaning that it makes you smarter and activates similar parts of the brain used in spatial reasoning and math.
Studying piano has also been shown to amazingly improve memory — particularly verbal memory — and build good habits like focus and perseverance, diligence, and creativity.
3. Calm the mind
Studies show that time spent at the keyboard improves mental health: people who make music experience less anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Playing piano has also been shown to be a great source of stress relief, and provides ample opportunities to bolster self-esteem.
This article is a re-post, with small modifications, of “The Benefits of Playing Piano” an article published on steinway.com
It’s interesting to know that playing the piano helps reduce our anxiety and depression. Lately, my sister’s been hiding in her home and avoiding any social interaction. Her anxiety is back, but I think she’d be open to getting piano lessons because she wanted them as a little kid, so I’ll suggest it soon.