Bathe Your Brain In This

It’s all around us.  It comes in many different forms – sounds of varying pitches and tones, rhythm and volume.  It can be hidden in the rain falling upon a rooftop or water as it tumbles over rocks and fallen logs.  It can explode from the surface of a drum, or trickle out from the strings of a guitar.  It can irritate and it can soothe.

Many of us, when listening to music, start to bob our heads, move our hips, or tap our feet without thought.  Our bodies naturally respond to music on an involuntary level, because like everything in this world, it is energy.  Vibrations seek out like vibrations.  That’s why when we are vibrating at a lower level (sadness, depression, or pessimism) we gravitate to slower-paced, melancholy-type music.  Higher vibrations (excitement, joy, optimism) demand music that upbeat, fast, and strong.

Different types of music alert different types of brain waves, making them react differently, which in turn makes us react differently.  Our brain naturally picks up on the frequency, tempo, and volume of the music we listen to and uses it to reduce muscle tension, improve coordination, regulate stress-related hormones, and change our perception of our world.

All of us gravitate to a certain type of sound, and for me, on a Friday, after a week of being jacked up on caffeine, doing the day job thing, driving the kids around to places they need to be, and writing, I could definitely use some soothing vibes to level me out.  My favorite is Roni Benise, Spanish guitarist extraordinaire.  I love watching his videos, because the passion in his music is compounded by the way he plays and by the way he becomes one with the guitar.  (The fact that I think he’s gorgeous doesn’t hurt either!)  His music always puts me in a better frame of mind.

There is no right or wrong when it comes to music.  Only that it is perfect for us.

So what type of music does it for you?  Are you an individual who fast-paced music actually calms you down or classical music rubs you the wrong way?  Or does it have the opposite effect?  What music do you have cued up for your Friday?  I’d love to hear your comments!