Self care is... music

I don't know about you ~~but I'm feeling twenty-two~~ but music is a massive part of my self care routine.

Whether I'm feeling low and need a pick-me-up, or exhausted and need something calming to help me sleep - music has always been there for me. A song has the ability to make me laugh, cry and sometimes when I hear a certain beat - sing (or rap) along at the top of my lungs!

Music is therapy, and there are scientific studies out there prove it!

Research shows that even sad music can lift your mood, while other studies suggest music can boost happiness and reduce anxiety, and according to Healthline, a study in 2015 found that people who listened to music before during, or after surgery experienced less pain and anxiety compared to those who didn't listen to music.

Music engages areas of the brain involved in emotion, motivation, cognition, and motor functions, and the last decades have seen a growing body of evidence in the use of musical intervention in clinical settings - concerning singing, music listening, musical improvisation, and other musical activities, as long as more structured music therapy treatments.

In a literature review on Effects of music and music therapy on mood in neurological patients results show a positive effect on mood, depression, and anxiety. "Depressive syndromes in chronic neurological illness are common and disabling" and instances of depression are high in chronic migraine patients like myself.

"Music therapy and musical interventions can improve mood and psychological well-being in neurological patients... the most significant results of the music interventions on the psychological side can be identified in the aspects more closely related to mood, especially in the reduction of the depressive and anxiety's component, and in the improvement of the emotional expression, communication and interpersonal skills, self esteem and quality of life."

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When we're going through hard times, a sad song seems relatable and comforting - letting us know that we're not alone in our struggles. When we're happy, an upbeat song can put an extra bounce in our step. Music is a powerful thing.

Music get's me through my commute to work. Helps me get dressed on a weekend. Keeps me company in the bath. Calms my thoughts when I can't sleep.

While I love listening to music blasting through a speaker in my room, or through headphones on the bus, some of my favourite music memories have been seeing my favourite songs performed live!

It's something I've missed immensely during lockdown, and although I may never be back to standing at the barriers with my PoTS diagnosis (the option of a seat is now a necessity for me), I hope to be back in a crowd as soon as it is safe to do so.

But in the meantime, I've shared a few of my Spotify playlists - for good times, sad times, tired times - and some girl power anthems!

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How has music helped you throughout your lifetime? And do you have a "go to" song - for happy times or sad?