It is well known that music is a universal language. It is an artform that transcends nationalities and reminds us of our connection to our humanity. Many historians argue that the origin of music predates the creation of language itself. For thousands of years humans have harnessed the power of music to understand and express their experience in the world. When we become aware of our relationship with music in this context, I believe we can utilize the healing power of music to help us practice Mindfulness.
In my Mindfulness Music classes at DBT Center of Orange County, I present the experience of music to our clients in non-judgemental and engaging ways so that they may positively develop their relationship to music and in turn, themselves! We reflect and analyze all types of music through the lens of DBT, reaffirming learned skills through thoughtful discussion of musical selections. In addition to our music analysis, we present opportunities for clients to interact and play a wide variety of musical instruments, that range from ancient percussion and cultural instruments, to keyboard synthesizers and iPad apps. Through this we can learn to listen deeply to ourselves, just like we listen to our favorite music.
Each experience with music, be it listening, dancing or playing, is an opportunity to practice Mindfulness skills and shows us how truly important music is to our well-being. There’s nothing like putting your favorite song on and feeling your anxiety dissipate to the sounds and vibrations through the speakers. Music can instantly transport us to our most joyous place. Music can also meet us at the depths of our darkest days and acknowledge what we may be feeling when nothing else can.
In an effort to bring different types of music to communities across the globe, World Day of Music was established in 1985 to be celebrated on June 21st. This Friday, June 21st 2024, marks nearly 40 years of the worldwide celebration!
In this spirit, here are some ways you can celebrate and practice Mindfulness with Music:
- Make a playlist of your favorite music and listen all day
- Share a song with a close friend or family member and discuss its importance
- Journal to a selection of songs that reflect where you are at in your Mindfulness Journey
- Go to a local concert and experience live music or watch a live performance of your favorite artist on Youtube
- Pick up an instrument and explore it!
Try practicing non-judgement and being gentle with yourself throughout the entire process and remember to have fun with it! Music is always there for us to have whatever experience we need to.
Written By: Antonio Rodriguez, Musician | Producer | FOH | Mindfulness Music Instructor
Pictured in Photo: Antonio Rodriguez with his guitar, smiling at DBT Center of Orange County
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