i probably do way too much stupid shit while playing, like watching youtube or some (poker)stream or some shit. not really "watching" obv but i literally can feel how it takes some of my brainpower that otherwise would go straight to the tables. still cant get rid of that habit. fml.

Still undecided on this issue after several years of going on and off with it.

But honestly, if I enjoy playing more with music on, then I play with music on, even if it lowers my performance slightly in the short-term. Enjoying your time at the tables is crucial for the long-term anyway.

I'd still avoid music with complex lyrics and stuff like that. And I wouldn't try new tracks while playing because that steals more of your focus. Classical music or videogame music is probably optimal choice compared to anything else.

Yerkes-Dodson law
Music can help to increase arousal and thus performance if arousal is too low. If arousal is high some relaxing music can be calming and help you play better or music can add even more arousal and make you play worse.

It's also a big difference between types of music. Music with a lot of lyrics can be distracting because it requires more attention and the same for music with a lot of complex rhythms. Piano music works the best for me, and pop music with a lot of rhythm and lyrics distracts me the most. I've read that jazz and classical music are two of the better forms of music to help mental performance.

Ye thx, that is it. I wonder how many people is prepared to listen this "meditative" music during a game despite they otherwise might listen heavy metal or techno, are they aware that "right music" could help them in game or they prefer to stick to their "usual choice" of music no metter what?

anyone tried brown noise or pink noise? it works pretty well for meditation, until now i never thought about using it for grinding..

I like it but it is seriously distracting so I generally turn it off

Music while playing has a noticeable drain on my performance, much as I wish it didn't. I do think taking a break and listening to music to get in the right mood can be useful though.

Im playing stuff like movie soundtracks, sounds of a rain/fireplace, or really calm electronic music, something that is just a nice calming background creating a good atmosphere but not distracting me.

I made this playlist specifically to help some of you guys to be both aroused and yet not distracted way too much. All pieces are soothing classical compositions by Chopin.

https://soundcloud.com/luke-bruce-705240853/sets/chopin-playlist

Hm good point, feel like i can't listen to music while playing poker maybe some ambient stuff. But atm i have insane tilt issues online.