School days can be long, boring, and stressful. The seven minute breaks between classes may be all the time students have to unwind and reset themselves. However, the atmosphere in the hallway barely differs from that of the classroom and may not offer enough relief from stress. To fix this, many students can be seen walking through the halls with their headphones in.
Music is an outlet for most of us. Songs can take us places, give us feelings, bring back memories, and inspire us. The benefits of music extend beyond what we think we know, and may actually help in the long run to increase productivity, creativity, and relaxation in a school or work environment.
A number of scientific studies have proven the benefits of music to an individual. Listening to your favorite songs releases dopamine in the brain, a chemical that increases happiness. Additionally, the stress hormone cortisol is lowered when you listen to music you enjoy, which improves your health. More specific studies have found that classical and meditational music can help relieve depression and cure insomnia.
Music literally makes you feel better, so it is no wonder why students here are encouraged to plug their headphones in throughout the day. Senior Alicia Southland said, “I think it is interesting to see the amount of kids in the halls with their headphones in. It just goes to show you how important music is to everyone.”

The benefits of listening to music may especially be needed during school hours, when things can feel particularly stressful or chaotic. Junior Kendall Miller said, “I see kids listening to music in the hallway all the time. I think it gives us all a much-needed break between classes.”
If you find yourself feeling fatigued of the repetition and stress of the school day, try listening to your favorite songs during these breaks between classes. You may be surprised at how simply putting in your headphones can improve your mood and energy.