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Going To Gigs Can Actually Help You Live Longer, New Study Finds

Hitting up a live music event at least once every two weeks can help you live longer, according to a new study into how concert-going can help boost your overall wellbeing.

The study, which was commissioned by telecommunications company O2 (their name adorns a number of live music venues across the UK, so it’s best to take this study with a grain of salt), found that 20 minutes of gig time can lead to a 21 per cent increase in feelings of wellbeing, which is apparently linked to an increased lifespan of around nine years.

Carried out by behavioural science expert and Goldsmiths University Associate Lecturer Patrick Fagan, the study found that gig-going can also increase your feelings of self-worth and closeness to others by 25 per cent, while increasing your mental stimulation by 75 per cent.

Researchers say they came to their conclusion after carrying out an unnamed number of psychometric and heart-rate tests at “a range of wellbeing activities”, including concerts, yoga classes and dog walks.

“Our research showcases the profound impact gigs have on feelings of health, happiness and wellbeing – with fortnightly or regular attendance being the key,” says Fagan.

“Combining all of our findings with O2’s research, we arrive at a prescription of a gig a fortnight which could pave the way for almost a decade more years of life.”

Earlier studies into music and wellbeing have found that heavy metal can be good for your mental health, while others have found that musicians are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety.

Prophets Of Rage – Hordern Pavilion, Sydney 22/03/18 / Photos: Maria Boyadgis

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