Relaxation: Creating Your Spa-Time Playlist

In the past, we have talked about Music and the Brain, the effects it has on us, and how it can make us feel (sad, happy, angry, energetic, etc). However, there is one thing we have not talked about-- stress relievers! That's right, musical therapy is a thing! Not everyone benefits from it, since it is totally up to the individual to make that choice and fully commit, but for those of you who are super stressed out, and are willing to try everything, you're in the right place! First off, let's go back to the brain. Listening to music promotes more connections within neurons and also releases hormones that can change our mood, simply put. When we listen to fast-paced music (70 BPM-120 BPM), we are typically going to feel more energetic as our heartbeat increase per minute, and this is why music helps motivate us to workout and lose the holiday pudge. What about easy listening? Classical? Piano and thunderstorm tunes? With the help of some purposeful slow breathing and a relaxed position (sitting or laying down), we can achieve relaxation at its finest! Will this cure all your problems? Probably not. However, it does provide some deep thinking time if that's what helps you to solve your problems. This is the basis of music therapy, and there are so many more musical options to choose from, as I only listed a few. Everyday struggles ARE a struggle, and music is here to help!