Table 1 Main studies regarding the effects of auditory stimulation on cardiac autonomic regulation

Lee et al., 2010 [11]

White noise exposure over 50 dB increases sympathetic activity and there is strong correlation between LF/HF ratio and noise intensity.

Roque et al., 2013 [12]

The authors suggested that relaxant baroque and excitatory heavy metal music slightly decrease global heart rate variability because of the equivalent sound level.

Roque et al., 2013 [13]

It was indicated that acute exposure to heavy metal music affected the sympathetic activity in healthy women.

Nakamura et al., 2007 [14]

Music reduces renal sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure through the auditory pathway, the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus, and histaminergic neurons.

De Castro et al., 2013 [15]

Pleasure in response to music induces dopamine release in the striatal system.

Kraus et al., 2010 [16]

Music training presents responses similar to physical exercise and it is a resource that tones the brain for auditory fitness.

Sarkamo et al., 2008 [17]

Musical auditory stimulation improved emotional and cognitive recovery in subjects with post-stroke.