New Study: Seeing Plenty of Concerts Raises Life Expectancy
This just in: Concerts are a lot of fun, but you already knew that. But did you know that seeing concerts on a regular basis can also have a positive health benefit as well? According to a new scientific study by O2 and behavioral scientist Patrick Fagan, seeing concerts every two weeks can extend your life expectancy by nine years.
According to the study, well-being is increased by 21 percent from just 20 minutes of watching a concert compared to 10 percent for doing yoga and seven percent for dog-walking.
O2 -- a company that owns a number of music venues in England -- commissioned the study, and Fagan used bespoke psychometric and heart-rate tests measuring a range of supposed well-being activities. The 21 percent increase in well being also factored in such key markers as a 25 percent increase in feelings of self-worth, a 25 percent increase in feeling close to others and the mental stimulation rose by 75 percent.
The study also showed that those who attended live shows once every two weeks were more likely to score highest in the categories of happiness, contentment, productivity, and self-esteem.
Fagan, an expert in Behavioral Science and Associate Lecturer at Goldsmith's University, says, “Our research showcases the profound impact gigs have on feelings of health, happiness, and well-being – with fortnightly or regular attendance being the key. Combining all of our findings with O2’s research, we arrive at a prescription of a gig a fortnight which could pave the way for almost a decade more years of life.” "Fortnight," by the way, is a term that refers to a period of two weeks.
While music in general can be uplifting and improve morale, one other note from the study suggests that over two thirds of the study participants (67 percent) stated that live music makes them feel happier than listening to music at home.
So, start checking the listings for concerts coming to your area. Seeing shows on a more regular basis will not only been fun, but could be beneficial to your future as well.
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