You know its January when the most common sounds heard in offices around the Sioux Empire are coughing and sneezing.

Personally I detest the months of January and February for that very reason. It seems like most everybody either has a cold or the flu, or is in the process of recovering from it.

On top that, I suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. When there’s way too many cold, grey, dreary days in a row it always seems to make me a little Coo Coo for Cocoa Puff's, if you know what I mean?

There's new research out now that suggests that "music" and "singing" might have a positive effect on both your mental and physical health.

So how do the different genres of music measure up? Here's a quick look:

  • Rap: The spontaneous lyrical improvisation in rap engages the pre-frontal cortex region of the rap music lover's brain, inspiring creativity. That’s funny, whenever I listen to rap music; it always seems to have a nauseous effect on me.
  • Classical: According to the research, this genre of music is best for helping focus one’s mind.
  • Mellow music: Those who listen to a steady dose of mellow music reported a reduction in pain and anxiety. As expected, this genre has a calm relaxing effect on the body.
  • Up tempo music: Faced-paced, energetic music was found to help those who perform a great deal of physical activities. It will help keep you pumped-up!
  • Your favorite song: Listening to your own personal favorite song triggers a release of dopamine in the brain, heightening the pleasure centers in the mind. Which should go a long way in helping you out of your funk.

So what is to be learned from all this?

I guess when you’re feeling a little down, or perhaps a cold coming on, keep your radio on or pop on your favorite song. The remedy of music, together with a healthy supply of hand sanitizer should get you through it!

 

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