I’m a neuroscientist. Here’s why our brains need pop concerts | Bala Subramaniam

I recently attended a Nick Jonas concert with my children, an experience that made me reflect on the importance of shared human moments. This concert brought together thousands of individuals, all engaging in the same rhythm and singing the same songs. Initially, I felt like an outsider at this event, but as it continued, I became fully immersed in the collective energy of the crowd.

Émile Durkheim's concept of "collective effervescence" resonated with me, describing the electric, communal intensity that volunteers experience when they are part of a larger group. For this state to occur, people must be present in the same space, dancing to the same rhythm. This shared experience serves to reinforce social bonds and common beliefs, which are often weakened by the mundane aspects of daily life.

As a neuroscientist and meditation practitioner, I have observed the impact of such experiences on our brains. My research on the Shambavi Mahamudra Kriya, an ancient yogic meditation practice, found that it reduces activity in the default mode network (DMN) of the brain, which is responsible for planning, daydreaming, and self-talking.

Similar benefits have been reported in astronauts, big-wave surfers, and skydivers during states of flow. While the DMN is essential for planning our daily activities, excessive self-referential thinking can be detrimental, leading to conditions like depression.

Concerts, unlike other large events, foster a sense of unity by connecting individuals through rhythm and music. This shared experience transcends differences in age, background, and beliefs, making it a powerful tool for building social connections. In the modern world, where distractions from digital devices are rampant, the need for these collective experiences is more pertinent than ever. Loneliness, a growing public health concern, can be mitigated by engaging in such communal activities.

It is time to reclaim the value of public, live music and the collective effervescence it generates. Concerts, dancefloors, and festivals should be recognized as essential public health assets, much like libraries and museums. These spaces offer experiences that are irreplaceable by technology or medical interventions, providing a rare opportunity to reconnect with our primal need for social interaction and belonging.