Music – Mind, Body, Soul

 Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.  –  Plato

We often hear people use phrases such as, “music to my ears,” to describe everyday pleasantries or good news that typically has no musical reference whatsoever.  Have you ever stopped to think where such sayings originate?  Or why?  Could it be that music is perhaps more than just notes and instruments, but part of a greater existence altogether: one that has an almost magical ability to transform and heal?

Music can be traced back as far as human existence itself.  It was used to tell stories, offer praises to the gods, relate to each other, and of course, to entertain.  The earliest forms of music came from the voice and imitated sounds in nature, and are thought to have been part of religious ceremonies and recreation.  As time progressed, so did the written word and the development of instruments.

The beauty of music is that it is a universal language that can be understood by all cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, and religions.  Time has no hold on music, and so music transcends throughout the ages.  Yet, music is also very intimate and personal to each and every one of us.

What is music for you?  Can you remember a time in your life when there was not music?  I am sure you would be hard pressed to find such an occurrence!  Can you think how music has impacted your life?  Or how you have witnessed it bring people together?

Music is your own experience, your thoughts, your wisdom. If you don’t live it, it won’t come out of your horn – Charlie Parker

Perhaps you see people moved to standing ovation during a concert, or tears during religious hymns.  Maybe you have been a part of some sort of musical outreach and saw the joy and gratitude of the patrons as they heard your performance.

Music is the strongest form of magic – Marilyn Manson

We can all agree that the past nearly two years have been quite challenging.  We have been tested as a nation, a society, as neighbors, families, students, in the workforce, and individually.  Were there any times during the past year or two that you felt music had a positive impact in your life or in the lives of those you know?  Do you feel that music has the ability to heal the soul and body in times such as these?  I would challenge you to reflect upon this question and search for instances where this holds true.

Some days there won’t be a song in your heart. Sing anyway. – Emory Austin

Here are a few beautiful examples of how music brought comfort to the suffering during these trying times.  Be inspired!  Perhaps, in turn, you can find ways to bring joy and inspiration to those around you, now and in the future.

Uses and Perceptions of Music in Times of COVID-19: A Spanish Population Survey

The Power of Music to Help Cope with COVID-19

A Verywell Report: Music Helped Most of Us Get Through the Pandemic

Music Therapy Brings Solace To COVID-19 Patients And Healers