November 8, 2016

The Sound of Music: a Therapeutic Approach.

0 Boost Score Amanda Gagnon (1,375,390)

546

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I can’t imagine a day without listening to music.

Music has always been (and probably always will be) my safe place. It has sheltered me from anger, released me from sadness and lifted me up with happiness.

I have certain go-to songs or artists, depending on the day and how I am feeling in that moment. It accompanies me on my long drive to and from work and provides solace when I need it most. Music has become so ingrained in me that I am rarely seen without a pair of earbuds dangling from my ears.

Now this can be seen as a good or a bad thing. I am sure a negative view of “being lost in music” is that I am avoiding my emotions entirely (or the world in general). However, I do not see it this way.

I think it is healthy to sit with our emotions a while. I don’t always feel the need to talk about things that may be bothering me. Sometimes, I just need to sit with my emotions, listen to a great song and connect with myself.

Sometimes I cry. Sometimes I sob.

Sometimes I smile so big that happiness exudes from my teeth.

I often struggle with how to handle anger, frustration and stress. I understand that these are perfectly normal responses—but in the end, it is how we deal with it that is most important.

Music has been a wonderful stress-reliever for me. I can’t recall how many times I’ve been angered or hurt by something, and by the end of an album, I am calm, focused and ready to take on the world.

Music is also a great form of self-expression. Whether something is bothering me, or I am beaming in love, sometimes it’s hard to put what I feel into words. But then I’ll come across a certain song, and the words completely resonate with me. They may help me understand myself better, or help me convey what I have been trying to say.

I share music with friends and lovers often, because it’s one way I know how to express love, words and feelings. It is also a way for me to show my most intimate self to someone. When I share songs or artists that I love, it’s sharing a piece of myself that not everyone gets to see.

Ultimately, music has been one of the greatest friends I have ever known. It is always there for me when I need it, and I can always count on it to make me feel better.