The Music has the power to transform that Head up: It is enough to listen to a specific song to activate the body or, on the contrary, to feel an immediate need for relaxation. What is the reason for this almost automatic reaction? A recently presented study reveals the central role of two concepts that emerged in Japanese music: tate-nori And Yoko Nori.
In the Japanese tradition, Tate-nori and Yoko-nori refer to the special way in which the body reacts to certain musical rhythms. ANDthe first – the “vertical journey”– describes the up and down bounce that occurs when listening to upbeat songs, typical of clubs or spinning routines. However, the other means “horizontal travel”: lateral rocking movements, similar to those caused by gentle melodies, such as those that accompany a campfire.
Although these terms have long been used by professional musicians and dancers in Japan, recent research suggests that identifying them may provide tools for emotional and physical coping in areas ranging from health to sports. Psychology today highlights that recognizing these patterns makes it possible regulate energy through musical selection.
Tate Nori songs – popularly known as “bops”— produce a significant effect activation. They tend to increase heart rate, quicken breathing, and awaken the sympathetic nervous system, preparing the body for action.
The key is inside the relationship between rhythm and the neurobiology of movement: The vertical movements of the body that occur when walking or running depend on the motor cortex, the basal ganglia and, above all, the cerebellum, which regulates the synchronization between auditory perception and motor response.
Defined percussion and a clear rhythmic structure reinforce this synchronicity. Accordingly Psychology todayAnticipating the musical beat increases motivation, improves physical performance, and activates the brain’s reward circuits, which helps reduce the perception of effort.
Therefore, playlists full of Tate Nori songs with high tempos and pronounced percussion are important allies for aerobic sports and intense training.
In the opposite extreme case, Yoko Nori songs advertise the rest And Regulation. Characterized by smooth transitions, subtle percussion, and expanding soundscapes, this music encourages lateral movements, such as rocking a baby or rocking in a hammock. By activating the parasympathetic nervous systemfacilitates physical and emotional recovery in stressful situations.
Stimulation of the vestibular system provides signals of stability, while reduction in auditory load and slow tempo produce states of mental fluidity.
As highlighted Psychology todaythese topics —Folk, reggae, R&B— They are ideal for yoga, stretching or creative processes and promote a state of calm and concentration.
The associate professor Shimpei Ikegamides Department of Psychology, Showa Women’s Universityled research presented at the sixth joint meeting of the Acoustical Society of America and the Acoustical Society of Japan. Together with professional composers, he designed music specifically aimed at provoking tate nori or yoko nori movements.
By analyzing acoustic parameters such as pulse clarity, intensity and rhythmic complexity, they showed that it is possible to systematically design the direction of movement. The experiments revealed that the majority of listeners reacted according to the composer’s intention: Vertical jump in front of Tate-Nori tracks, lateral swing with Yoko-Nori.
“It is surprising how reliably sound influences the way the body wants to move”Ikegami explained. The findings open up new possibilities for use in healthcare, rehabilitation and education.
Scientific findings prove what musicians, therapists and athletes have been experiencing for years: music modulates motor and emotional response with remarkable effectiveness.
Accordingly Psychology todayChoosing Tate Nori songs before physical activity prepares the nervous system for the effort, while Yoko Nori songs help recover after intense days or stressful moments.
The secret lies therein Match the music to the moment: Resort to intense rhythms to increase energy or calm melodies when it is necessary to lower the speed. This makes it an accessible and powerful tool for daily self-regulation.
Understanding the influence of rhythm – vertical sway or sideways sway – on the body and mind can help you use music more consciously. Choosing the right track not only instantly changes your mood, but also provides a simple and effective way to manage emotions and performance in everyday life.
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