Listening to music can could boost immunity by increasing the levels of antibodies that protect against infection, according to researchers at McGill University in Canada.
Immunoglobulin A (IgA), an antibody found in our mucus membranes, was present in higher quantities after listening to music, according to an analysis of more than 400 scientific papers in 2013. This antibody can help to prevent infections.
Music listeners also had higher numbers of natural killer cells — a type of immune cell that attacks bacteria and other pathogens.
Lead researcher, psychologist Professor Daniel Letiven, suspects it might be related to falls in cortisol — the stress hormone — that also occur when we listen to music. Cortisol is known to suppress the immune system.
Major health benefits of music uncovered
How music can improve your sleep
You might think that you need silence to sleep, but numerous studies have found that listening to music before bed can help improve sleep in people with insomnia.
On average it takes three weeks for the effect to kick in. Possibly because we start to create an association between the calming effect of music and the ability to sleep. Try playing music on a low volume for 45 minutes before sleep. You should use a device that has a timer, so it can turn itself off. Research has also shown that it’s better to use music without lyrics.