Expressing Feelings Through Music

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” ― Plato

The beat. 
The lyrics. 
The rhythm. 
Fast. 
Slow. 
Music.

Intuitively we know that music has an effect on our mood.  Have you ever watched a mother singing a lullaby to a baby, as she sings and sways the baby is mesmerized. Watching that interaction brings about a feeling of tranquility and calm.   On the other hand, when working out music can transform your movement giving your energy and pushing you forward to keep going.  Depending on your mood you may listen to music that will evoke more of the feelings that are stirring inside or less. Music can help us express what we cannot put into words.  It can be an effective way to help us express feelings and cope with the challenges of life.

As a therapist I incorporate listening to music as part of working with clients.  One way I do this is by asking a client to create a play list of songs in the session or out of the session that resonate with the them.  Then we listen together and use it as a way to work through their experiences. The playlist usually has a variety of songs that evoke different feelings.  Another way to explore music is to draw while listening because a deeper meaning may emerge.  Explore what feelings were evoked and how the drawing or lyrics may reflect those feelings. It’s important to keep in mind when you are listening to music that it can evoke strong negative emotions.  Therefore, I will purposely switch to music that will offer a client a chance to move into a song that will close down those strong emotions and offer a calmer state.
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Not sure what to play here is a playlist from Alexa.

1. 80’s Rock Anthem 
2. The Top Most Played Hip Hop.
3. The Top 50 Most Played Songs of the Week.
4. 50 Great Songs From The Last 10 years.

Or check out this song list.  
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Happy-Walking On The Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves & Happy by Pharrell Williams.
Sad-When She Loved Me by Sarah Mclachlan & Crying by Roy Orbison.
Angry-Wrecking Ball By Miley Cyrus & We’re Not Gonna Take It by Twisted Sister.
Scared-Thriller By Michael Jackson & Under Pressure by Queen, David Bowe. 

​Which song got your foot tapping, or body swaying?  Which song made you think of a happy or sad memory?  Notice the music you listen to throughout the day, what does it mean to you?

Compile a list of your go to songs to help you move through your feelings. Music is very personal and what one person may love another may not.  Find the music that resonates with you whether it’s classical, rap, country, blues or pop any music can help you express your emotions and cope with negative feelings.

"Music is the shorthand of emotion” by Leo Tolstoy.

​Comment below songs that evoke your feelings!