Boost memory: From ancient times, music has been utilised often for therapeutic purposes. Today, it is widely acknowledged as a powerful tool for enhancing cognitive abilities in people with a variety of neurological problems. 


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The cognitive functions of the brain, such as memory, attention, language, sensory perception, motor function, and others, can be significantly impacted by music therapy. It is a tried-and-true therapy approach for people with a range of neurological conditions, including dementia, Parkinson's disease, and stroke.


Dr Guruprasad H, Senior Consultant Neurologist, Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur told Zee English about the connection between music and the brain's cognitive function.


Music Therapy and Cognitive Skills


Your brain's cognitive abilities may benefit from music therapy's holistic approach. By encouraging patients to listen to rhythmic rhythms while walking, music therapy is used to improve gait in people with Parkinson's disease. This is believed to enhance walking capabilities and lessen freezing and reluctance in the gait cycle. 


With an emphasis on enhancing language, attention, and concentration as well as executive function, this treatment can also be employed as a component of stroke and dementia rehabilitation.


Memory: Music can help individuals with memory impairments by evoking memories associated with particular songs or melodies. It can also help in forming new memories and retaining information.


Attention: Music therapy can improve attention skills by enhancing the ability to focus on specific sounds and rhythms.


Language: Music therapy can help in improving language skills by enhancing the ability to recognize and process speech sounds. It can also improve the ability to express oneself through singing or playing an instrument.


Executive Function: Music therapy can improve executive function skills, such as planning, organizing, and problem-solving.


Lifestyle Changes to Keep in Mind


Regular Exercise


By boosting blood flow to the brain and encouraging the development of new brain cells, regular exercise has been demonstrated to enhance cognitive abilities. Exercise can help music therapy work better by enhancing motor skills and lowering stress.


Healthy Diet


A nutritious diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains might enhance cognitive abilities by giving the brain the nutrition it needs. It has been demonstrated that consuming foods high in omega-3 fatty acids—found in fish, nuts, and seeds—improves cognitive performance.


Adequate Sleep


Lack of sleep can affect memory, attention, and executive function. Sleep is essential for cognitive function. By encouraging brain plasticity—the brain's capacity for adaptation and change—adequate sleep can boost the therapeutic effects of music.


Stress Reduction


Excessive stress can make it harder to think clearly and raise your chance of developing neurological diseases. By lowering tension and fostering relaxation, stress-reduction activities like yoga, deep breathing, and meditation can increase the effects of music therapy.


"Those who suffer from neurological conditions can significantly improve their cognitive abilities by adopting these lifestyle modifications together with music therapy. Consequently, using music therapy as a supplemental therapy might help individuals who are dealing with cognitive impairments feel stronger overall," concludes Dr Guruprasad.