Staying Positive with Music
Boosting our moods with a happy playlist
It’s easy to feel cooped up and frustrated during uncertain times. The absence of normalcy can cause a lack of motivation to get things done. Research shows that listening to music releases endorphins in the brain, which in turn reduces anxiety and stress.
Here are some great examples of upbeat songs that send out positive messages (we included playlists below!):
- Happy by Pharrell Williams
- Can’t Stop the Feeling by Justin Timberlake
- I Gotta Feeling by Black Eyed Peas
- Don’t Worry, Be Happy by Bobby McFerrin
- Good Vibrations by The Beach Boys
- Walkin’ on Sunshine by Katrina & The Waves
- Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
- Fight Song by Rachel Platten
- Brave by Sara Bareilles
- Firework by Katy Perry
- Dynamite by Taio Cruz
- Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars
YouTube Playlist Spotify Playlist
Other than listening to songs, we can also get creative and write our own! Song parodies are a great way to lighten up the mood. Songwriting may seem daunting at first, but you can always start simple. For example, by only switching out one word per line, the whole song can go a completely different direction. Deciding on an overall theme can also help with brainstorming new lyrics.
With many people moving onto online platforms, online jamming is also becoming popular! Strangers, friends, teachers, and students can play and sing together via video calls on platforms like Google Meet, Zoom, or Skype. More and more services have popped up in the last few months to help musicians connect with one another.
Music can help us stay positive during discouraging times, keep afloat and stay motivated. Besides, more music is always welcome!
Resource:
Why Listening to Music Makes Us Feel Good
