Whistle a Happy Tune
© Julie J. Murelle
Music. It touches your heart and can speak to your soul. But have you ever considered that it can relax you, energize you and more?
When I first separated from my husband, I heard nothing but sad love songs, everywhere I went. I am extremely vulnerable to music. I almost could not go out in the world or eat in a restaurant because this affected me so profoundly. I began to avoid music as if it were an obnoxious acquaintance I was attempting not to run into.
As time went on, my vulnerabilities to this lessened and I found out that in as much as music could make me feel sad, it also had the power to make me feel less stressed out, hopeful and happy.
Songs can make you laugh. Consider those old Weird Al Yankovic songs and many other's from the Dr. Demento show. ("Fish Heads", and "I Lost on Jeopardy", were two of my favorites) or how about that old master, Ray Stevens (who could forget, "the streak"?) I also am a fan of the song from Nickelodeon entitled, "I want to be a Brady." (This is not something I readily admit, but I am a closet Brady fanatic, except to my family who knows about this sickness and tolerates it.)
Songs can sooth. I always tend to think of some lovely instrumental strains or perhaps a bit of Jazz.
Songs can empower. This was surprising to me, because during times when I have felt frustrated or angry, I have listened to a CD called, "Chicken Soup for the Soul, the Triumph of the Spirit, " and I have actually felt better. This is a collection of songs that are encouraging, motivational and all about overcoming adversity. My Brother, Mike, and his family gave this to me on my birthday, with some lovely candles. I know it sounds a little hokey, but I tell you that it make me feel strong to listen to Elton John's, "I'm Still Standing," and "Invincible," by Pat Benatar. These songs and others have given me momentary hope to get me through some rough moments.
Songs can take you places also. Whenever I hear the song, "Kokomo," by the Beach Boys, I can actually close my eyes and be transformed on a mini vacation. There I suddenly am, lying on a sandy warm beach, tropical breezes caressing my face, as a steel drum serenade's me with it's soothing rhythms.
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