Society is rampant with discussion, and debate, about the "New Age" era. In recent years, many have been consumed by, or have consumed, the elements of this current age of enlightenment. The elements seem to be everywhere: they line the bookshelves of almost every bookstore, as well as the racks of almost every CD shop, and New Age mantras and mottos decorate everything from tee shirts to bumper stickers. But a little known fact is that there has actually been research on the subject, and the focus of this research was centered around music.

What really constitutes the “New Age” genre? Wikipedia describes New Age music as, “a style of music originally associated with some New Age beliefs. It has its basis in the work of various 1960s European and American electronic and acoustic musicians, and is generally characterized as being primarily instrumental and repetitively melodic in nature. Recordings of naturally occurring sounds are sometimes used as an introduction to a track or throughout the piece.”

The theory is that New Age music is good music: good for mind, body, and soul. Researchers report that individuals who listen regularly to music of the New Age genre are healthier, happier individuals. Most attribute this to the relaxing and stress-relieving properties of this type of music.

While the term "New Age" tends to bring to mind spirituality or enlightenment, one is not required to be a very spiritual person, or even to subscribe to New Age or similar spiritual beliefs, to enjoy and benefit from listening to this calming genre of music. Anyone who loves to listen to music and finds themselves in need of a calming moment, source of rejuvenation, or a romantic fire starter can, and likely will, find themselves enjoying this genre.

Check out these links to New Age information and artists’ pages and find out if this genre might interest you:

The Ultimate Enigma Fan Experience

The Official Enya Website

The Official Mars Lasar Website

Soothing, Healing New Age Music by Composer Frederic Delarue

New Age - Free Music Downloads/a>

Discography of New Age, Electronic, and Ambient Music

New Earth Records - Visionary music to enhance wellbeing - New ...