Music has always been a huge part of my life! It's not that I'm musically gifted - I couldn’t carry a tune if I tried. In fact, I’ve been told on numerous occasions that I’m tone-deaf! Haha! Don’t worry; that doesn’t stop me. I belt it out in the car, shower, and all day at home, much to my family’s objection.
On that note, a couple of times, my kids have heard a song I’ve sung their entire lives. After hearing the actual song, their exact question to me was, “That’s the song you’ve always sung? It doesn’t sound anything like it!” Lol!!
I sing because it brings me so much joy. I'm present when I’m singing (often at the top of my lungs). Being present is where the least amount of stress exists. Our stress typically comes from past thoughts or future “what if” thoughts. So, it’s crucial to engage in activities that bring us to the present moment; this is how we find balance. These activities may include cooking, gardening, dancing - expressing creativity in whatever way is best for you.
Music is magic. It doesn’t involve tricks; it’s pure and it’s real. During my life, I’ve watched the magic of music heal, move us, and communicate - all these incredible things. I'm sure you can all relate to hearing a song that triggers us emotionally, returning us to painful or joyful moments.
Music soothes our souls. When we’re down, we can use our favourite music to increase our energy levels and forget about our troubles for a little while. There are truly healing components to sound. We connect to the lyrics, and if we write music, it’s a wonderful way to express our emotions. So, put on your favourite song, sing, dance around the living room for a while, be playful, and release the day’s worries!
Through my meditation practice and teaching others, I found that using peaceful, relaxing music in the background can help us focus our attention. This is one of the essential aspects of meditation, and once it occurs, we feel more rested. See, music is magical if it helps us feel more rested! Everyone I talk to these days is tired.
It’s so important to engage in activities that bring us joy, whatever that may be. All of us are so busy with life that we forget to play. Make play a priority in your life no matter your age. Take at least 15 minutes daily and connect with your inner child through play. I love this anonymous quote:
Remember her?
She is still there…inside you…waiting
Let’s go get her
Until next time…sing loudly, proudly, and find that little one inside of you!