From musical rhythms to spoken words, the sound vibrations you hear every day affect you. Music, in particular, has been shown to organize the brain, at both a cellular and a psychological level. Music is to the brain what exercise is to the body; think of it as a cognitive workout. A study of Alzheimer’s patients showed positive results after twenty minutes of music exposure, including elevated moods, reduced agitation, and an increase in socialization. Here are two tips on how the right tones can assist you in breathing better and losing weight:

Play relaxing music at dinner time.

A sound diet may be beneficial to losing weight, according to researcher Brian Wansink, director of the Food and Brand Lab at Cornell University, who used slow jazz instrumentals to allow diners in a restaurant to consume less. Wansink believes the musical ambience created a relaxing atmosphere that allowed patrons to eat slower and enjoy their meal. As a result, those who were exposed to the jazz music consumed 18% less than those not exposed to the music.

Create good vibrations

For centuries, meditations such as chanting “Om” have helped individuals stay focused and present. According to a 2011 study, chanting “Om” is shown to reduce stress, and the act of humming can bring about a calm state of mind, which researchers have found can improve one’s breathing rate and boost oxygen distribution throughout the body. Try to practice 5­ minute breathing exercises daily to get good vibrations going in your body and brain.

1. Sloan, Matthew. “The Surprising Health Benefits of Sound.” NextAvenue.org. 2013.11 January 2013. Source: https://www.nextavenue.org/surprising­health­benefits­sound/