In part three of my series about the incredible human, I am going to talk about our ability to create, interact, and enjoy music. Music is found in all human cultures and thus appears to be part of our biology and not simply a cultural phenomenon. Although many animals can perceive the components of music the way we do, at least some also enjoy similar aspects of sounds, musicality is strictly human. We think of birds as singing, but they are merely communicating using complex patterns of rhythm and pitch, much the way humans employ intonation while speaking. For instance, we may speak more quickly and louder when excited. Additionally, we raise the pitch of the final word when asking a question. But music composition, performance, and appreciation are strictly human phenomena. This post will focus on how music may have been with us since before speech and may be credited with helping us connect as social beings, among other benefits.
Read MoreOne of my dogs, Luna, was injured this week and is in the hospital. Thankfully she is expected to make a full recovery. Her absence has been a reminder of how important she is to our family. But her absence has also reminded me how important she is to our health and well-being. She puts a smile on my face, calms me, and makes me happier. Let's look at the science behind how dogs can help us be happier, healthier, and live longer.
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