Seek Joy: Music

Recently, we attended a concert of the Beijing Guitar Duo. Meng Su and Yameng Wang played so beautifully that I spent the majority of their concert with my eyes closed, just letting it move me.

I felt the light frolic of a spring day in a sunny, warm meadow with a gentle stream and fluttering butterflies. I felt the stomping and clapping of a Spanish couple dancing intensely to a tango. I felt the bustle of an old Chinese shopping district filled with people and bright colors dominated by reds.

Throughout their performance, I felt a profound peacefulness and happiness that only the best music can provide. It stayed with me for hours, even after the closing applause and the car ride home.

Music can profoundly impact emotions, whether it’s the gentle sound of a piano, an upbeat pop song, or the calming atmosphere created by ambient music. Different genres of music can elicit a range of responses—they can help regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, and even alleviate depression.

Starting your day with an uplifting song that energizes you can help set a positive tone for the rest of the day. A friend of mine's son prefers to be woken with the song "Rockin’ Robin" instead of an alarm clock. After trying it a few times myself, I can confirm its effects!

If the events of your day bring you down, music can improve your mood. Listening to a favorite song can bring joy and lift your spirits. And singing along to your favorite tunes can provide enjoyment and emotional release.

When stressed, our bodies produce cortisol, the stress hormone. Music, especially relaxing genres like classical or instrumental, has been shown to lower cortisol levels and promote a sense of calm.

You can also combine music with mindfulness or meditation practices. Soft, ambient sounds can be a great way to enhance your mindfulness practice, ground your thoughts, and reduce anxiety.

Calming a racing mind at the end of the day can be challenging. Music can play a major role in improving sleep quality in the evening. Slow-tempo, relaxing music can improve sleep patterns, reduce insomnia, and promote more profound rest.  

Lastly, the shared experience of live concerts or music events can create a sense of community. They foster social connection, which is especially beneficial for mental well-being by reducing feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.