Music makes my day, every day
Greetings,
You know you’re getting older when all the musicians you listened to growing up reach their eighties and pass away. Most recently, we lost greats such as Helen Reddy, Mac Davis, Eddie Van Halen, and Johnny Nash.
Their songs left indelible marks on my life and cherished memories. I sang “Downtown” for a vocal contest in high school, along with "My Favorite Things." Our folk group at church inspired the congregation with “I Can See Clearly Now,’’ and that always lifts my spirits.
Music of all genres has played loud and lively in my life. I don’t remember not having music at the center of every day. When I was about four or five, my day-care had a piano. Nothing made me happier than to curl up with my nap-time blanket under that piano.
In 2011, scientists discovered the brain connection to music and how it affects us physically and emotionally. We know how food, drugs, and sex can rev up dopamine levels in the brain, but music also releases the feel-good chemical that keeps us coming back for more.
This year, wrapping myself in songs old and new keeps a smile on my face. I can’t think of a better dopamine addiction than music—probably better than chocolate.
What makes your heart sing? I’d love to know what song(s) brighten your day and keep you going.
Inspiration worth sharing . . .
In keeping with the music theme, I found several articles you might find interesting and a couple of super playlists. And remember, “the hills are alive with the sound of music!”
I gave a musical tribute to living on the edge.
Learn more about the scientific power of music in this short animated video. If you want a few interesting tidbits about the link between music and happiness, check out this infographic.
Science says these five songs will make you happy. Brené Brown’s Yacht Rock playlist will surely keep you dancing, smiling, and feeling good.
Inspiring words . . .
“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” —Plato
“Music can name the unnameable and communicate the unknowable.”
—Leonard Bernstein
“When I hear music, I fear no danger. I am invulnerable. I see no foe. I am related to the earliest of times, and to the latest.” — Henry David Thoreau
Be and become #yourbest today and every day.
With gratitude,
Kathryn
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