Exploring auditory processing and the influence of music on our autonomic nervous system brings us to a fascinating crossroads where scientific research and sensory perception intersect. The power of listening to music, especially during specific therapeutic listening sessions, cannot be underestimated. Participating in these sessions can help you manage your emotions. And in promoting a balance in your emotional state.
The autonomic nervous system and our feelings
The functioning of our body depends on the autonomic nervous system. This plays an important role in the regulation of emotions. During moments of stress, the sympathetic nervous system is activated. This is responsible for the "fight-or-flight" response. While the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for relaxation and recovery. An important part of the parasympathetic system is the vagus nerve. Stimulation of this can have a major impact on our overall well-being.
Sound has a major impact on how we feel
Sound sensitivity can be both a friend and an enemy. It depends on how well our nervous system can process and integrate sounds. This is why the tone of voice or the type of music we listen to can affect how we feel. Therapies that stimulate the vagus nerve, such as the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), have been developed to support and improve this processing process. Improved regulation of our behavioral states improves our ability to be socially engaged. And provides a stronger foundation for connecting with others in a deeper way.
Techniques to regulate the autonomic nervous system
These topics are not only interesting from a scientific perspective; they also offer practical opportunities for personal use. Applying techniques that calm the autonomic nervous system can significantly improve people's lives. And research in this area continues to develop. By combining scientific knowledge and personal experience, we can better understand how to positively influence our physical and mental health.
A personal experience of a listener of the SSP that substantiates this I'd like to share with you
First of all I want to say thank you for the opportunity to use the Safe and Sound protocol.
I noticed to my delight that this is more powerful than expected. It made me positive but also in respect to it. I started with one minute as recommended and I felt clearly activation of the nervous system, especially the second day. I tend to be in dorsal shutdown most of the time so I guess it's a good thing to get more activated.
Because I also had some emotions coming up, anger, sadness and even insights, and a bit worsened sleep, I haven't yet dared to increase the time. I still do one minute a day and sometimes a day off, so I'm about 11 minutes into the first hour.
I do feel some positive effects too. Less dissociative, more clear minded, energetic and have easier to take action.
I know it's a good thing that suppressed emotions come up so I can work through them. But when stressful events and demands of life at the same time it's a bit harder.
Written by Åsa Lindström and reprinted with permission.
What makes the SSP unique as music
What makes the SSP's music further interesting is that it contains music filtered by an algorithm that acts directly on the autonomic nervous system, which is why it helps with many complaints. If you want to know more about that, read on at this comprehensive page about the Safe and Sound Protocol.
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