Mind Your Music
Gabrielle Malaniak, a viola student at the Eastman School of Music at the Lilac Festival on a spring day in Upstate NY.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote that “Music is the universal language of mankind”, and according to recent data, he was probably right. As of 2017, Americans spend over 32 hours each week listening to music. It’s a widely loved activity, and one that also happens to provide a myriad of benefits to our mental, physical, and emotional health, which is why it is our focus this August.
Listening to music with intention can help us to feel more engaged, present, and in-tune (so-to-speak) with ourselves. It’s that feeling when you’re listening to a song you haven’t heard in so long, but still know each word. Or when you hear a new song for the first time and have to stop yourself from hitting repeat too many times. Listening to a song with intention helps to foster connection with music, and thus with oneself. So for this week’s action item, we ask that you identify a song, or a few songs that you love, and take time to really listen to them. Perhaps find a quiet place, or set off on a walk with some headphones, but either way, listen generously (and we will too).
If you like what you hear, share your song choices (even the guilty pleasures, we don’t judge!) and experiences with us as a comment on this post, Facebook, or Twitter with the hashtags #ReadySteadyGo and #MusicILove.
Happy Listening!
Please Note: Doctor Chander cannot practice medicine via the internet; no matter how hard she presses on the keyboard she won't be able to feel your pulse. Doctor Chander will not dispense medical advice via email - if you have health concerns please schedule a consultation or see your doctor. For full disclaimer please see Disclaimer Page.
Dr. Chander • August 18, 2021 •
I made a playlist of songs I want to learn to sing. I was singing along the whole way on my drive back to my hometown after visiting my dear friend from college. It felt really good to be belting it out in the privacy of a car. Each repetition got better, with more confidence in the lyrics and intonation. Good summer fun!