India, Nov. 4 -- Has music felt like a warm hug when you're feeling low? It could be that nostalgic song from your childhood or the heartbreak anthem that understands your pain better than anyone else - music has a way of easing your stress and gently lifting your mood. "Music plays a key role in calming the body's built-in alarm system. When people listen to the music of their choice, their brain's control centres ease the bodily functions, lowering the heartbeat and easing the 'fight or flight' state," says Dr Ajit Dandekar, head of mental health (psychiatry and psychology) at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital in Mumbai. Music also helps to calm down the physiological stress response. Dr Ajit elaborates, "Music turns on the brain's reward circuits, leading to the release of dopamine and endorphins. That's why many people feel the chill while listening to a favourite section of a song." At the same time, while music has undeniable therapeutic value, it is not a replacement for actual clinical therapy. "Music can be an aid, not the treatment itself. So if you are suffering from any mental health disorder, do not try to replace the recommended drugs or therapies with music," Dr Ajit adds. Musicians and sound wellness facilitators Kamakshi and Vishala, founders of The Sound Space, share the types of music that are soothing and help in stress relief: Indian classical alap The slow, introspective opening of a raga allows for deep pauses, space between notes, and emotional resonance, promoting calm brainwave activity and gentle emotional release. Lo-Fi (low fidelity) beats Featuring simple chord progressions, mellow beats, and ambient noise, lo-fi closely mirrors a relaxed heartbeat. Its predictability and lack of lyrics make it a great tool for maintaining focus without overstimulation. Binaural beats Created by playing two slightly different frequencies in each ear - which your brain interprets as a third frequency, binaural beats act like a form of sonic brain training that nudges the mind into a peaceful rhythm. Nature soundscapes Nature-inspired music for relaxation can have profound effects on mental health, as the nervous system is hardwired to recognise these sounds as 'safe,' reducing mental overactivity and improving mindfulness....