Music can be used in many different ways and offers various forms of storytelling; message sending and a declaration of feelings of one’s self or towards others. Music is one of the most noticeable and popular forms of expressing how someone feels.

For athletes especially, music may be used as a motivator and something that helps them get their blood pumping before an important event. It also helps them calm their nerves before doing what they love in front of potentially hundreds of people.

Sophomore Austin Vasquez is a three sport athlete at Antioch Community High School, he participates in football, wrestling and track and field. Vasquez uses music as a way to motivate himself before his football games and wrestling matches. 

“Music is something that has influenced me and something that helps motivate me,” Vasquez said. “I always listen to music before practice or before games or throughout the day.”

In 2016 Charles Sturt University conducted an experiment deciding if music can motivate students in different aspects of their lives, and not just in the classroom.

According to Charles Sturt University,“Music can cause the brain to release dopamine, a chemical which works to regulate motivation and goal oriented behavior.”

Music is often used for relaxation and a way for people to boost their moods. Sophomore Madelyn Lopez uses music as a form of coping when she is not feeling like herself.

“It will make me happier, or just put me into a better mood,” Lopez said. “Music is something that has influenced me a lot, it has become a big part of my life and part of my daily routine.”

Music is not only something enjoyable to play or listen to, but has been scientifically proven to affect one’s mood and persuade or change thinking.

Healthline  has conducted numerous different surveys and experiments proving that music can be extremely therapeutic and helpful for the mind. According to Healthline, “new research shows that even sad music can lift your mood, while other studies suggest music can boost happiness and reduce anxiety.” 

In the same article, Music therapy programs can be designed to achieve goals such as managing stress, enhancing memory and alleviating pain

Music is not only a form of expression that is used among artists and musicians, but can be and is used as a way of healing and a form of motivation among listeners.