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Why Music Is Now Your Best Brain Health Investment
If you had a pill that reduced your risk of dementia by nearly 40% with no side effects, cost under $20 a session, and left you feeling joyful — you'd take it without hesitation. That pill doesn't exist. But music does. New research from Monash University — one of the largest studies of its kind — followed more than 10,800 older Australians and found something remarkable: those who listened to music regularly had a 39% lower risk of developing dementia. Those who played an in
Petra Taylor-Smith
Jun 42 min read


Loneliness Is as Damaging as Smoking 15 Cigarettes a Day — Here's What We Can Do About It
Australia is in the middle of a quiet epidemic. It doesn't make headlines the way other health crises do, but the data is stark: one in five Australians over 75 reports feeling persistently lonely. And the health consequences are as serious as any chronic disease. Loneliness has been shown to increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia and premature death. Researchers at the University of Chicago found it to be as harmful to physical health as smoking 15 cigarettes a
Petra Taylor-Smith
Jun 43 min read


Dance, Singing and Your Brain: What the Latest Science Says
We know exercise is good for the brain. But not all exercise is equal — and the research on music-based movement is now producing some of the most exciting results in the neuroscience of ageing. Dance outperforms the treadmill A landmark study published in PLOS One compared the brain effects of various forms of exercise in older adults. Dance-based programs didn't just match the cognitive benefits of repetitive exercise — they significantly exceeded them for brain plasticity,
Petra Taylor-Smith
Jun 42 min read


The Science Behind Why Music Keeps the Brain Young
New research is showing that music does more than lift our spirits; it helps keep our brains young. Discover how listening to and playing music supports memory, focus and wellbeing in later life, and why finding your rhythm might just be one of the best things you can do for your mind.
Petra Taylor-Smith
Nov 1, 20252 min read


Ride to the Rhythm: How Music, Movement, and Friendship Fuel a Joyful Life
Ever noticed how the right song, a bit of movement and the company of good friends can lift your whole spirit?
In this week’s blog, Petra shares a heartwarming story of reconnecting with her university friends for a weekend of laughter, cycling and music. It’s a reminder that joy often comes when we combine the simple things: rhythm, friendship and moments that make life sing again.
Read the full blog and rediscover how music and movement can bring harmony back into your da
Petra Taylor-Smith
Oct 26, 20252 min read


Use Music to Find Your Rhythm Again
MOST of us know the magic that music can bring to life. A favourite song can lift our mood, stir old memories, or help us unwind after a busy day. Music has the power to calm, energise, connect, and heal —and that’s exactly what local facilitator Petra Taylor-Smith hopes to explore through her Music as Medicine sessions coming to the Sunshine Coast in 2026. “Music taps into every part of who we are,” Petra explains. “It can bring focus, relaxation, joy, movement, creativit
Petra Taylor-Smith
Oct 20, 20251 min read


How Music Can Tune Up Your Brain, Body, and Social Life After 50
For Australians over 50, life isn't winding down. It's a vibrant second act full of new possibilities. You already know music is a great...
Petra Taylor-Smith
Oct 13, 20253 min read


Unlock Your Mind: How Music Enhances Memory and Cognitive Function
Music isn't just entertainment; it's a powerful tool for the brain. Research shows that Music can significantly boost memory and...
Petra Taylor-Smith
Oct 7, 20252 min read


LIVE YOUR PASSION
The Quiet Challenge of Three Quarter Time You’ve navigated the marathon of building a life—raising a family, chasing a career, paying the...
Petra Taylor-Smith
Oct 7, 20254 min read
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