Health Benefits of Learning an Instrument as an Adult
Generally, teaching a child to play an instrument from a young age has a wide range of benefits that will help them throughout their lifetime. But many people don’t know that many of these same rewards also help those learning an instrument later in life. Read on to learn about several health benefits of learning an instrument as an adult.
Brain Health
Keeping the brain healthy can feel like a never-ending job. Fortunately, learning to play a musical instrument provides a significant boost. Learning an instrument increases the production of gray matter, which helps improve brainpower.
Reaction times also improve. Increased reaction speeds help in everyday situations like driving. Additionally, adults can hone their multitasking abilities. Learning to play an instrument like the guitar involves expanding your senses, and doing multiple things at once becomes easy.
Mental Health
Along with brain health improvements, there are also a host of mental health benefits to learning to play. Music is a great way to relieve stress for both the listener and performer. Music can be anything someone wants it to be, as everyone interprets it differently.
Learning to play music creates a sense of accomplishment, even as an adult. Picking up a new skill is never easy, especially one as complex and diverse as musical instruments. Learning can also help those coping with anxiety, depression, or other mental health struggles.
Social Interaction
Finally, there are many health benefits of learning an instrument as an adult revolving around the social aspects of training and performing. There are several accepted methods for learning, including getting instruction in person in a classroom or in an individual setting. Though COVID-19 paused most face-to-face classes, online lessons are still available.
The social interaction inherent in playing an instrument is crucial. Talking with fellow performers and listeners can offer a unique perspective on your own style and playing preferences.
