In this episode, Chris Hemmings speaks with Emma Marshall, a PhD researcher studying how movement to electronic music can help reduce stress.
After working in the music industry for more than a decade, Emma experienced several years of serious health problems that left her unable to work and searching for answers. During her recovery, she began exploring how music, rhythm and physical movement could help regulate her nervous system and reconnect her with her body.
Chris and Emma discuss the science behind music and movement, the ancient role of rhythm in human communities and why dancing can be far more than entertainment. They explore how electronic music may help regulate stress, release emotion and create a sense of connection and belonging.
They also discuss rave culture, the stigma surrounding electronic music and why the dance floor can provide men with a rare opportunity to move freely, express themselves and release emotions without needing to explain what they are feeling.
Emma shares details of her research at Drumsheds, where participants’ physiological and self-reported responses to electronic music are being studied. She also explains how people who feel uncomfortable dancing can begin privately at home, simply by putting on music and learning to move in time with the beat.
This episode is a conversation about music, movement and why finding our rhythm could play an important role in improving mental and physical health.
As promised, here the two DJ sets to get you started:
Eski @ Fusion Festival - Downtempo (slow paced & atmospheric)
Zerya @ Mystic Creatures Festival - Disco House (upbeat & fun)
Also, just as we should support male therapists, please support female DJs!
You can find Emma and MIM HQ here:
https://www.instagram.com/emma.marshall.mim/
You can find Chris here:
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