Thinking of learning the guitar?
Here are 12 great reasons why you should
1 - Sense of achievement
Mastering chords, perfecting songs and nailing that tricky guitar melody are a few of the challenges that face any guitarist. Yet the sense of achievement gained from doing so is truly gratifying. Achievements like these also teach us that there is more to adult life than financial rewards.
2 - Social benefits
Few instruments equal the guitar when it comes to uniting people. Guitars have a sense of spontaneity to them. Bring one out at a party and you can become the centre of attention. Learning guitar with like minded people can also, in time, lead to new friendships and a richer social life.
3 - It’s good for your brain
Learning to play chords and read sheet music opens up new neural pathways which can rewire your brain in a positive way. This can lead to all kinds of cognitive benefits such as improving focus, intelligence, and motor skills. This sharper brain function can help guard against mental decline in the future.
4 - Stress relief
Playing an instrument can be very therapeutic and can have a big impact on reducing your stress levels. Since practicing guitar demands your whole attention it can also be great for people struggling with depression and anxiety disorders. Playing guitar in these times of anxiety can take you out of the moment to a better place in time and life.
5 - It makes you sexier
It has been proven time and time again that anyone who can play an instrument is seemingly more attractive to the opposite sex. Studies show we associate musical ability with intelligence, commitment, hard work and physical prowess. Playing guitar becomes a part of who you are and a vital link in some of the best relationships you will have.
6 - It’s orgasmic?
Hearing music triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, the same chemical that’s released during sex. Playing the guitar and enjoying the sounds you are making can make you feel really good. Also, according to a study from the University of Utah’s Pain Research Centre, listening to music, and in this case, your own, can take your mind off, and thereby reduce pain.
7 - Be a better you
Your personal development is improved in many areas such as concentration, memory, improved communication and self confidence. The more you improve at playing guitar the bigger the gains are to your self esteem. This will give you an increased sense of satisfaction, helping you to feel good about yourself. You are awesome after all!
8 - Unlock creativity
We are all innately creative, even if at times we don’t feel it. Playing guitar reconnects us with our creativity and that in turn helps us express our true authenticity. “Creativity [Art] washes from the soul the dust of everyday life” - Picasso
9 - Open up your world
The greatest part of learning the guitar is that if you take it seriously enough it can actually earn you some money. You can become a performing guitarist one day. You could end up travelling the world playing music to new people and expanding your horizons. Love your life and live it to the fullest.
10 - Love your heart
Researchers from the Netherlands found that patients who practiced music for more than 100 minutes a day showed a significant drop in blood pressure and a lower heart rate than those who didn't. Harvard Health ran a similar study on the effects of listening to relaxing music on blood pressure and anxiety on patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
11 - Mulitask like a pro
When you practice you are actually doing so many things at once. Reading notes, keeping time, listening, moving the fingers. The human brain will eventually rewire itself for the better in adapting to multitasking. Once you get the hang of this valuable skill, you will also apply it in other areas of your life.
12 - Connect with people
One of the great powers of making music is that it brings people together. Music knows no barriers. There is a deep emotional connection with music. These positive emotions are amplified when we play songs to provide those feelings for other people. This has to be the ultimate benefit of learning guitar; to make others feel something wonderful.