Music In Mind

Most of us have a favourite song or piece of music.   Think about it now. How does it make you feel?   Is it tied in with a memory, a loved one, a time or a place ?

For me, it would be the music of the singer and songwriter, David Bowie.   I discovered his music when I was 14 years old.   It changed my life and it has helped me to get through some difficult times.   More than 50 years later, I still listen to David Bowie’s music.   His songs still mean something to me.   They still inspire different emotions.

Music is important for our mental well-being.   A 2011 study by researchers found that listening to music releases dopamine.   (This is the neurotransmitter that helps us to feel good.).  Volunteers who listened to music that they enjoyed also had an increase in dopamine of up to nine per cent.

Listening to music can reduce stress and anxiety.   Lower blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels are the main benefits.   (Cortisol is a steroid hormone that is often known as ‘the stress hormone.‘)

Music can also be used to regulate our mood.   One example is using calming music to aid relaxation and sleep.   Listening to music can also be used as a distraction to the way we are feeling.   This is especially true of anxiety and depression.

Listening to a song can even help people to process difficult life events such as bereavement or divorce.   One important aspect of music therapy is the analysis of song lyrics that mean something to a patient.

A playlist of favourite music can be a useful tool.   I am old enough to remember when this involved using a cassette tape recorder – a difficult process indeed!   Nowadays it is so much easier.   Go on to the AI platform ChatGPT and you will find information on how to create a music playlist.   (Type in ‘Please give me information on how to create a music playlist for mental health.)

Making music with other people is also good for our mental health.   Whether playing an instrument in a band or orchestra, or singing in a group or choir, we can share our love of music.   There are a number of organisations that are only too happy to welcome new members.

Some GP’s now refer patients to local community groups through social prescribing.   Social Prescribers link a person’s interests to activities, groups, and services within their community.   This also includes music-making.

There is also Rock Choir.   This was started by singer and musician Caroline Redman Lusher MBE in 2005.   Rock Choir offers local weekly rehearsals, performances, and events at more than 400 towns and communities across the UK.   Previous musical experience is not required and there are no auditions for Rock Choir.   Groups are led by a professional Rock Choir Leader.

Then there is the thrill of listening to live music.   Whatever your taste in music, there is something for everyone.   And there is no doubt that being with like-minded people enjoying a performance is very special.

In September there will be a weekend of music in support of Hammersley Homes. On Saturday 6th September, the Penguin Cafe Band will perform their music.   This uniquely blends minimalist classical, folk, and global styles. 

On Sunday, 7th September, there will be an Evening of Opera.   This will include performances by tenor and actor Colin Judson, Welsh baritone Emyr Wyn-Jones, Welsh soprano Elin Pritchard, and mezzo-soprano Victoria Simmonds.

Truly a weekend of music that is not to be missed!   Book your tickets HERE, now!