Image of a young woman with closed eyes listening to music through headphones (Pexels)

Zeina Saleh Kayali from the “Musical Faces of Lebanon” foundation at the Gautner Publishing House (Paris) explains that “music therapy is a scientifically organized therapeutic method where sound, rhythm, singing, playing, songwriting, and listening to music are used under the supervision of a specialist to achieve specific psychological goals such as reducing anxiety, improving mood, or expressing emotions.” She adds that “it differs from ordinary listening aimed at entertainment or personal relaxation, as music therapy follows a treatment plan with clear objectives.”

Music's impact extends to the brain and nervous system, with Kiyali pointing out that it: "reduces negative thinking, helps express emotions that are difficult to articulate in words, enhances positive memories and emotional connections, lowers stress hormones, and stimulates the release of happiness hormones." She confirms that "scientific studies have shown a clear reduction in anxiety and stress levels when using targeted musical therapeutic interventions."

Image of a music therapist with a student (Pexels)

The response to music is not identical among individuals; it varies according to psychological needs, such as:

Representative image (Pinterest)

However, the basic rule, as explained by Kiyali, is that “the most important thing is customizing according to a person's response rather than the type of instrument itself.”

This effect extends across different age stages:

• For children: improves emotional expression and concentration

• For teenagers: enhances identity and helps in dealing with depression

• For adults: helps relieve anxiety and trauma

• For seniors: assists in combating dementia, depression, loneliness, and improving memory
  

In everyday use, music can be turned into a supportive psychological routine: positive music in the morning to start the day, instrumental music during work for concentration, 15 minutes of mindful listening after fatigue, and quiet music or natural sounds before sleeping. Singing or simple playing can also help release emotions, especially when combined with deep breathing or meditation.

Representative image (Pinterest)

However, despite its benefits, Kiyali points out that caution is necessary in some cases, most notably: