New scientific data claims that two particular types of music could lessen the symptoms of motion sickness in individuals who experience the condition.
In September, Frontiers, a publisher of peer-reviewed scientific information, shared data on the relationship between four types of music and motion sickness. Researchers at China’s Henan Institute of Science and Technology conducted the study. They found that “joyful” and “soft” music “significantly alleviated motion sickness symptoms.” Moreover, joyful tunes were slightly more effective at alleviating motion sickness compared to soft music.
Meanwhile, “sad” music possibly intensified discomfort “through emotional resonance.” The researchers noted that the sad music “had a lower alleviation effect” on motion sickness than the control group. The other type of sound that the data collectors tested was “stirring” music, which had a “moderate” impact.
What Else Is There To Know About Music As A Cure For Motion Sickness?
The study had some particularly noteworthy limitations, including a sample size of only 30 subjects aged between 20 and 30. Additionally, the sample size’s motion sickness was based on their feelings while using a driving simulator, as opposed to them actually being on the road.
Travelers often experience motion sickness while in transport, including in cars, on flights, or on boats. People also commonly experience motion sickness while on roller coasters and amusement park rides. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headaches, perspiration, and more.
“Motion sickness significantly impairs the travel experience for many individuals, and existing pharmacological interventions often carry side effects such as drowsiness,” noted Dr. Qizong Yue of Southwest University in Chongqing, China. “Music represents a non-invasive, low-cost, and personalized intervention strategy,” added Yue, a corresponding author of the article in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.
“Based on our conclusions, individuals experiencing motion sickness symptoms during travel can listen to cheerful or gentle music to achieve relief,” Yue noted. “The primary theoretical frameworks for motion sickness genesis apply broadly to sickness induced by various vehicles. Therefore, the findings of this study likely extend to motion sickness experienced during air or sea travel.”
