Music is so powerful, some researchers believe it has clear benefits for both mental and physical health. Stress negatively impacts our immune systems by increasing cortisol levels. Music helps relieve stress. By helping our minds, there’s evidence music also improves our physical health.
My son Matt, who was one of the happiest people I’ve ever known, was a huge lover of music. In fact, one of my favorite quotes from his friends, was “Matt literally danced his way to class in college – huge headphones on, jamming out to music, with his tiny hemp backpack, dancing on the sidewalk the WHOLE way to class.” And I can see him doing that with no worries about what anyone thought.
He loved the way music made him feel and he didn’t worry about what other people thought.
When I named this website and blog and included Ripple in the name it was for two reasons. First is the obvious, the ripple effect of intentional kindness, like a pebble dropped in water, the ripple goes on and on . . . . . The second reason ripple was perfect for a web site for Matt was because the Grateful Dead had a song titled, “Ripple”. One of many songs Matt listened to with joy in his heart.
Music is an incredible gift, and we should never take it, or the happiness it produces, for granted.
Kindness includes, being kind to your self. So kick back, relax and listen to some music. Give yourself some kindness!
And let me know in the comments below, what’s your favorite song? And how has music helped you?
As always, I’d appreciate it if you would help me get the word out about the Matt Kurtz Kindness Award of $250 (nominate someone who inspires you) and the Matt Kurtz Kindness Grant of $250 (submit an act of kindness you would do with $250).
This is a wonderful post. I agree with everything you say about Music. We have always enjoyed music, but Alexa (from Amazon) has really expanded our horizons, since we can ask her to play anything. We actually listen to some classical music now! But mostly, I like upbeat, happy music! Paul Simon is one of my favorites.
yes, to happy music – music that makes you smile is a good thing!
Thanks for the post Jackie. Matt loved music.
This is Ashi by the way.. 🙂
you’re right ashi, music brought him great joy and he loved sharing it with everyone.
Music is definitely a way to be happy. I have downloaded so many of my favs to & when i work out, it gives mxe the kick in the butt i need. Grateful Dead is on there, and yes, Ripple and Box of Rain are my all time favorite of that band. There are so many great songs and artists to choose from and all kinds of genres!
There’s another great benefit, makes workouts more enjoyable! Get those headphones on, and boogie on through your workouts!
So true Jackie, Music is powerful. I used to wear my head phones and job up at the local school track. to this day when I hear those songs it makes me want to take off running. I wore out my Little Feet tape jogging on that track.
you picked a great soundtrack to jog to! actually i don’t think there’s anything you can do that wouldn’t become a little better with the joyful sound of little feat.