Or maybe the hair on the back of your neck stands on end.
But one question persists: Why does it happen?
Eighteen volunteers, 11 women and seven men, participated.
All reported experiencing chills during enjoyable music prior to the study.
These abilities are all key to musical emotional processing.
“So, we knowhow, now we need to understandwhymusic is pleasurable and rewarding.”
Experts have long argued whether music has a biological function.
While some consider music a byproduct of human existence, others theorize it gave our species a leg up.
From an evolutionary perspective, the advent of music could have increased interdependence and social cohesion.
Bonded groups that worked together were more likely to survive.
The instruments are thought to have been the first to be used in recreation and ritual.
Historically, music has been used as a tool to maintain this social cohesion as well.
Early humans made music together to further bond and promote survival.
“I could envision babies being born that were quieted with the music,” Howland says.
Furthermore, studies have shown music can potentially boost the immune systemand aid in treating conditions likeAlzheimer’s.
“Its an easily accessible resource, and its a beautiful one to share.”
Researchers like Chabin hope to advance the understanding of musical pleasure, and this study is just the beginning.
We will finally unlock the magic of the biology behind it," Howland says.
“Were chipping away further and further at it.
In stressful times, listening to music is an easily accessible resource for promoting mental health.
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