PPL PRS on the healing power of music in the workplace

Can music help to reduce symptoms of anxiety?

As the demands of work and business ownership continue to evolve post-pandemic, so too do the mental health challenges that accompany them.

Whether you’re running a team or managing your own workload, it’s not uncommon to experience feelings of anxiety.

At Niche Magazine, we know how important mental wellbeing is for productivity and performance, which is why we’re pleased to share this guest article from music therapist Marianne Rizkallah, courtesy of our Niche Business Awards 2025 music sponsor, PPL PRS.

Marianne explores how music can be a practical and powerful tool for easing workplace anxiety. She also offers practical tips for making it part of your daily routine.

Using music to support anxiety at work

It’s no secret that life has changed drastically since early 2020. With those changes, stress and anxiety have become familiar experiences for many. Whether you're returning to an office after years of remote work or stepping into a new professional chapter, it’s entirely normal to feel uneasy at times.

While self-care, time outdoors, and mindfulness are all helpful for reducing anxious feelings, music can also play a key role in soothing the mind and body.

Recognising anxiety in yourself and others

Symptoms of anxiety often show up physically: racing heartbeat, shallow breathing, exhaustion, and body tension. In a workplace setting, it might also present as irritability with colleagues or heightened sensitivity to feedback from senior staff.

Our brains can convince us that perceived threats are real, which then triggers a cascade of stress responses. The good news is that music can interrupt this cycle. By influencing the brain's emotional and physiological systems, music has the potential to calm nerves and reduce physical symptoms of anxiety.

Why music helps

Music impacts both the autonomic nervous system — responsible for things like heart rate — and the limbic system, which governs emotion. Research has shown that listening to music before facing a stressful event can speed up recovery afterwards.

And those goosebumps you get during your favourite track? That’s dopamine at work, released both in anticipation of and response to music you enjoy.

In Marianne’s own music therapy practice, she’s seen how people use music in surprisingly effective ways to manage anxiety at work. One memorable example involves a client who used the rhythm of their playlist to tackle emails, syncing actions to musical bars to stay focused and add a little enjoyment to their day.

Music and mood: What the stats say

According to a PPL PRS survey, nearly every respondent reported that music influences their mood — some songs lift them up, others help them wind down. Around 63% said music definitely affects their mood, and 31% agreed that it sometimes does.

There’s also scientific evidence for what makes a piece of music calming: a steady pace, uncomplicated melody, and predictable harmony. That said, personal taste matters too. Two tracks might have the same musical characteristics, but the one you prefer is more likely to ease your anxiety.

Tips for using music to ease back into work

1. Choose instrumental music to support focus. Lyrics can be distracting, especially when you're under pressure. Opt for wordless tracks to help your brain concentrate and stay present.

2. Build playlists together. Music is a great way to bond with coworkers. According to PPL PRS data, nearly a third of employees say music contributes to a positive office environment. Collaborating on a playlist with your team can foster connection and boost morale.

3. Turn up the tempo for a midday boost. Faster music can elevate your energy levels by encouraging your heart to beat in sync with the rhythm. Whether it’s Pop or Rock, choosing upbeat music can help you push through your task list with greater momentum.

Marianne Rizkallah is a qualified music therapist and director at North London Music Therapy. This article was written in partnership with PPL PRS, proud music sponsor of the Niche Business Awards 2025.