Mind, Body & Music

Music has a universal tongue. Songs have words in many languages, but the feelings behind them can often evoke emotion or even form connections, without a more in-depth understanding of the lyrics.

For me, music has always been a form of nostalgia, a method of connecting, way of releasing or a means of therapy. More recently I have realized its ability to connect me with my present self. Often lost in the bustle of the day, the chaotic emotions of my household, frantic deadlines at work and the heaviness of the present world, I’ve begun to realize how important it is to check in with myself. Stillness, mindfulness, and mediation are ways I’ve come to slow my mind and body and pay attention to the energies that that deal with daily. I appreciate the value of music as a guide; as an over thinker, it can be very hard to get my mind to slow down. Music creates a focal point for which my brain can relax. With the support of music, I have cultivated purposeful points in my day when I my mind and body in a central space, these are my current go to’s!

Inner Peace — Beautiful Chorus

This is my connection song. When the world seems awry or my emotions are getting the best of me, this song offers a calm pause. 4.04 minutes to pause; bringing my headspace into connection with my body.

The Journey - Sol Rising

This is my “tuning into the basics” song. Sometimes when we’re doing menial tasks we get lost in them. If I’m cleaning or re-potting a plant but I am trying to be present, I will light an insence for smell and I will listen to Sol Rising. Something in the upbeat but gentle songs keep my mind active and present while I get on with daily tasks.

Light Me Up — DJ Drez ft. Marty Nikko

This is my movement song. It gets the energy in my body flowing. I find myself standing on my yoga mat moving through tactical stretches as this song streams from my phone. An upbeat combination of EDM and guided meditation, literally giving you the simple lyrics of “light me up, breathe,” almost as if it is asking a favour from the universe.

The Ultimate Guided Visualization — Rising Higher Meditation

Personally one of my favourite guided meditations. I listen to this sometimes only halfway as it is 47 minutes long. It is a peaceful break from reality. This is a calming, guided ritual which is excellent for connecting with your inner thinking and especially good for releasing negative emotions. I would specifically recommend this one for anyone who loves nature, it’s a wonder of woodsy/ earthy escape.

The Origin of Love — Hedwig and the Angry Inch

This is my emotional release song. Whatever heaviness is weighing on me can slowly be dissolved as a stick my headphones in and let go. This song helps to calm my nerves and centre my thinking, and after a few consecutive listens, my head is always much clearer getting me more in-tune with my emotional state.

Beyond — Leon Bridges

This is my reminder to love song. This is a call to my heart space, specifically when I’m feeling a bit lost or bombarded with negative feelings about my external world. This song is not only musically and lyrically so well written; it is also a feel good tune. Instantly puts a smile on my face and makes me feel like I am in the company of love.

One particular reason I keep these songs in my zen rotation, is because they never lose their momentum. Some of them have additional meaning , while others have no external meaning or history, regardless their significance and meaning never waver.

I am constantly discovering new songs and MANY songs that serve different and important purposes in my life; a walk down memory lane, a fast-paced dance routine, a cry when missing someone I’ve lost or a warm shoulder during a breakup. However, for all the escaping music can help with; these songs bring me down to reality. They help me connect my body to its current space and there is something truly impactful in that.

Hopefully, some of these songs can be used as a tool for you, connecting you not only with others and the external world, but also with yourself.