12 Ways you can use music to boost your mental health

Whether you consider yourself musical or not, it's safe to say that you have a favourite song.  But did you ever think about why you enjoy listening to that music or how it makes you feel?  Music can have a profound effect on our mood and we can harness its power for good, by deliberately incorporating music into our day to give us the boost that's needed.  ​Here are 12 ways you can use music to boost your mental health today:

1. Create a Relaxing Playlist to Start your Day
Start your day with a calming playlist of soothing instrumental music, classical tunes, or nature sounds. This can help you set a peaceful tone for the day and reduce feelings of anxiety.
2. Dance it Out
Put on your favourite high-energy songs and dance around! Movement combined with music helps release endorphins, boosting your mood and reducing stress.  Even a short 20-minute dance session can boost your mood significantly.  Try it during the energy lull mid-afternoon.
3. Sing Your Heart Out
Even if you’re not a singer, belting out a favourite song can help reduce stress and elevate your mood. Singing releases tension, improves your mood, and provides an emotional outlet, and you can do it in the car or the shower if you’re self-conscious.  Want to take it one step further – why not join a choir?!
4. Practice Mindfulness with Music
Listen to ambient music while practicing mindfulness or meditation. The rhythm and tone of the music can help centre your thoughts and promote relaxation.  Use music with a steady, calm rhythm (like Tibetan singing bowls or binaural beats which have two slightly different frequencies) during meditation or yoga practices. Focus on the sounds to help centre your mind and deepen relaxation.
5. Use Music for Deep Breathing
Incorporate music with slow tempos during deep breathing exercises. This pairing can encourage relaxation and calm your nervous system.  Choose something without lyrics that acts as “white noise” to help you focus.
6. Journal to Music
Play music that matches your current emotional state while journaling, allowing the music to guide your thoughts and help you process complex feelings. Try writing freely to songs that resonate deeply with your mood and see what comes up!
7. Create a Gratitude Playlist
Compile a playlist of songs that make you feel grateful, inspired, or connected. Listen to it whenever you want to shift your mindset to a positive, thankful one, or as a boost at the end of a busy or trying day.
8. Boost Your Productivity with Focus Music
If you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed with working, studying or doing sustained tasks, listen to instrumental or lo-fi music designed for concentration. This can improve focus and productivity without the distraction of lyrics.  Mozart is particularly good for this because of the regularity of the phrasing.
9. Use Music to Reflect Your Emotions
Music can provide a safe emotional outlet for releasing built-up tension, grief, or frustration. It can also help people process emotions that are hard to articulate.  So, when you're feeling sad, angry, or frustrated, pick cathartic music that matches your mood. Allowing yourself to connect with music that reflects your feelings can help you process and release emotions.
10. Use Music to Improve Sleep
Create a bedtime playlist of calming, sleep-inducing music. Slow, soft tunes can help quiet your mind and prepare your body for a restful night's sleep.  Create a nighttime playlist featuring soothing, soft music (classical, instrumental, or ambient sounds) and listen to it for 15-30 minutes before bed.
11. Listen to Upbeat Music for a Mood Boost
When you're feeling down, play some high-energy, positive tunes that uplift you. The rhythm and lyrics can boost your spirits and energise you, combating feelings of depression or lethargy.
12. Reconnect with Music from Your Past
Listen to songs that remind you of happy times in your life, such as songs from your childhood. Nostalgic music can evoke positive memories and a sense of comfort, helping you feel grounded and calm.
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In Conclusion
Music is a powerful tool for mental wellbeing. Whether you use it to calm your nerves, boost productivity, or improve your mood, incorporating music into your daily routine can have profound positive effects on your mental health.  Why not try it today?