Mozart or Miley Cyrus?
During a recent massage, the therapist played Bruce Springsteen. While I love his music, I found myself distracted, tapping my foot to the beat, and mentally following the lyrics. This is what prompted me to explore the topic of music in massage.
Choosing background music for massage therapy can seem subjective, but there's a compelling case for making it an objective choice. Music isn't just a background filler; it sets the mood, enhances the ambience, and aligns with the therapeutic flow of the massage. Surprisingly, many therapists select music based on personal preference rather than considering the overall experience for the client.
I started my first massage shop in the ski fields of Thredbo Village, Australia. It was a baptism by fire, catering to a ready-made audience of skiers dealing with aches, pains, and dysfunctions every day. Here's a fun fact: when I first opened, indoor water fountains were all the rage, often accompanied by music with chimes. Not long after I set up shop, a regular customer asked if I could move the water fountain outside the massage room. She explained that the combination of cold, chime music, and trickling water made her bladder struggle during her sessions. Lesson learned!
The Science Behind Relaxation Music
Research supports the idea that music with around 60 beats per minute, without sudden changes in tempo or volume, is most conducive to relaxation. This tempo syncs with our heartbeat, promoting a restful state. This synchronization helps our brainwaves enter the alpha stage, which is associated with relaxation and calmness. Stanford University researchers have highlighted music as an effective and accessible stress reduction tool.
The Ultimate Relaxation Track
A fascinating collaboration between the British Academy of Sound Therapy and the band Marconi Union resulted in a track called "Weightless," acclaimed as the world's most relaxing song. Studies found that this tune slows heart rates, lowers blood pressure, and reduces breathing rates, outperforming other tested songs by reducing stress and anxiety by up to 65%. Its slow tempo, low frequencies, and soothing sounds create a tranquil atmosphere perfect for massage therapy. (If you are interested, CLICK HERE
Frequency and Healing
Different frequencies in music can have varied effects on our mental state. For instance, a 2019 study published on PubMed explored the influence of 528Hz sound, demonstrating its potential to reduce anxiety. Other studies suggest that frequencies like 432Hz may promote healing at the cellular level.
I believe if you can add a little more healing to your therapy, why not huh?
Personal Preferences in Music Selection
Despite the science, personal preferences still play a role. I prefer guitar or piano classical music with a low rhythm. Sometimes I enjoy acoustic covers, but they can be distracting if they prompt me or the client to sing along.
However, it's important to remember that music is subjective. What soothes one person might irritate another. One client even requested no music, which made me acutely aware of every external noise. Music sets the tone for the massage, enhancing the overall experience and complementing the therapy.
Finding the Right Balance
So, Mozart or Miley Cyrus? The choice is yours. The key is to select music that blends into the background, not interfering with your focus or the client's relaxation. It should enhance the therapeutic environment, making the massage a seamless and holistic experience.
In summary, thoughtful music selection isn't just about personal preference; it's about creating the perfect environment to complement your therapy. So, next time you choose your playlist, consider how it combines the massage and the therapeutic journey you're providing for your client.
