The Power of Music
Can you recall a moment when you have been driving down the highway, sun is shining and your favorite song is blasting on the radio?
What about a moment when you have felt sad or depressed and a song comes on that mimics the feelings you are having right then?
Or maybe you are filled with rage and go into your room to scream along with your favorite go-to metal band.
Music is used in so many facets of our lives and can hold so much power for us as complex human beings. Whether it is jamming out to pop music with friends or reminiscing over old favorites, we often use music for a sense of connection.
We may use certain songs to feel connected and validated after a messy break up or for feelings of empowerment to keep going despite our sadness. Music can be used to celebrate, to commemorate, to mourn, and to relate.
As I write this, I am soothed by the soft beat of “Mescaline Smoke” by Matt Ryder, it helps me to focus and provides a calming atmosphere to work in. While at times we may use music to ease the silence around us, it can also be used to validate our emotions, as you may have found if you identified with some of the moments mentioned above.
In sessions I often use music to provide a calming space while a client works on an art activity or to allow a client to bring me into their world by showing me their favorite songs. Music can be an incredible way to share parts of ourselves or to help express feelings we cannot quite put into words.
I have had clients share with me songs that remind them of relationships they have with those around them or to depict the nuances of a depressive episode when they have no words themselves for how to describe this moment of struggle.
I often encourage clients to create specific playlists for periods of sadness, anger, happiness, and relaxation. When we listen to something that we can connect and relate to, the feeling is often indescribable. We may be overcome with a sensation of warmth, a slight chill, or a sense of being held and understood. This can be used as an incredible coping skill.
If you find that a song hits you in a specific way, like it, save it, take a moment to be present in that feeling. If it is helpful, maybe seek to deepen your understanding of what about the words, tone, or rhythm are speaking to you. Does it remind you of someone or validate something you’ve long needed?
Take some time to reflect on how you use music in your life. How can you increase the use of this powerful tool or be more intentional with what it has to offer you?
