Tools & Tips
Joyful Noise

Have you ever felt a sudden burst of energy after hearing your favorite song? A rush of positivity upon listening to some really good music? It doesn't matter whether you like Pink Floyd or Fergie, Mozart or Tim McGraw. Listening to your favorite music doesn't just relax you - it may actually help your heart! Great news, right!?

The same researchers who several years ago found that laughter has positive physical effects on the cardiovascular system recently turned their attention to music. They asked 10 people to choose songs that move them, as well as those that stress them out. The result: The subjects' blood vessels expanded and everage of 26 percent after listening to joyful music for 30 minutes, and narrowed 6 percent after hearing anziety provoking-tunes.

So crank up the tunes, baby! You can learn more about the study here.

(Photo: iStockphoto/Dan Wilton)