Stress and Music

Abstract

The chapter relates psychophysiological stress theory to music. A brief description of Selye’s General Adaptation Syndrome is followed by a discussion of the interplay between genes and environment and an introduction of the concept epigenetics. Musical experiences are then related to these theoretical models. The concepts energy mobilisation and regeneration/anabolism are introduced as fundamental factors in the understanding of music in health promotion. The health promoting effects we might get from regular, repeated musical experiences in everyday life could arise in three ways: (1) inhibition of intensity and frequency of arousal reactions—music as a filter against excessive energy mobilisation, (2) strengthening of anabolism/regeneration improving resilience in general and (3) improved coping patterns—new ways of thinking may lead to positive expectations of successful coping.