Music has a way of transporting us. A simple melody can bring comfort, lift our spirits, or help us focus when our minds feel scattered. I can think of countless moments when a song moved me to tears or when a great ’80s alternative track had me leaping out of my chair to dance. Maybe you’ve felt that too?

Science backs this up—listening to music lowers stress hormones, boosts feel-good chemicals in the brain, and even helps regulate our heart rate. Slow, steady rhythms can calm the nervous system, while repetitive melodies encourage focus and flow, and just the right track can motivate you to a fun and joy-filled workout. 

Music is also deeply personal. It can be the landscape for our special moments, the cocoon that nourishes us as we process emotions, or simply the warm blanket that provides a sense of peace and safety. 

Patrick’s Playlist is a beautiful example. Patrick, my brother in law, was born with cerebral palsy and other serious neurological challenges. He lived into middle age as a nonverbal man who relied on others to meet all his daily needs. Despite his condition, he radiated love and kindness, touching the lives of those around him. 

At Patrick’s recent memorial service I discovered his great love of music. One of Patrick’s long term caregivers, Sherry Minnig, during her eulogy, recalls, “He truly enjoyed spending countless hours listening to classical music.” She goes on to say, “He taught us so much about resilience, about the importance of connection, and about the beauty of living in the moment.”

Patrick’s Playlist: The Calming Power of Music for Anxiety Relief

Music has a unique way of soothing the mind and body, especially for those dealing with anxiety. Classical and instrumental music, in particular, can activate the part of the nervous system that promotes peace and emotional balance.

Patrick’s Playlist was carefully chosen by his mother and caregivers to bring him comfort and joy. It is filled with songs that slow the heart rate, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Each song has a special quality that helps ease anxiety and bring a sense of calm:

• “Amo Soltanto Te” – Andrea Bocelli: Bocelli’s voice is soothing, releasing feel-good chemicals in the brain.
• “The Four Seasons” – Vivaldi: The steady rhythm of this classical piece helps the brain relax.
• “Simple Gifts” – Yo-Yo Ma: The cello’s deep tones are known to ease stress and encourage relaxation.
• “The Mission / Perfect” – The Piano Guys: A mix of cinematic and acoustic music that creates a peaceful atmosphere.
• “Canon in D Major” – Johann Pachelbel: Its predictable structure is calming and meditative.
• “Over the Rainbow” – Marston Smith: Nostalgic and gentle, it brings feelings of warmth and comfort.
• “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” – J.S. Bach (The Piano Guys): A structured, flowing melody that provides a sense of peace.
• “Yesterday / Imagine” – The O’Neill Brothers: Soft piano versions of classics that evoke reflection and tranquility.
• “Here Comes the Sun” – The O’Neill Brothers: A light, uplifting tune that brings hope.
• “Fly Me to the Moon” (Cello Version) – Jokok Cello: The cello’s richness helps the body relax.
• “Serenade No. 13 for Strings in G Major” – Bruno Weil: Mozart’s music is known to help balance emotions.
• “Symphony No. 40 in G Minor” – Leonard Bernstein: The dramatic flow of this piece provides emotional release.

Don’t have spotify? Check out the playlist on iTunes.

Music can be a powerful mindfulness practice. Taking a moment to sit, breathe, and truly listen allows us to be present. It can be a way to immerse yourself in the emotions and sensations of the music and, if you choose, bring a sense of calm into our day.

A Mindful Music Practice

This simple practice combines mindfulness, music, and gratitude to support focus and ease.

1. Find a comfortable open position. Sit or stand in a way that allows you to feel both alert and at ease, and receptive to the sensations in your body.
2. Begin with your breath. Notice the natural rhythm of your breath. Simply breathe in, and out. 
3. Listen. Direct your attention on your ears. Play a selection from Patrick’s Playlist, or any selection you choose, allowing the layers of melody and rhythm to guide your awareness.
4. Notice the sensations in your body: the changes in depth and rhythm of your breath, the increase, decrease, or steadiness of your heartbeat, vibrations in your shoulders, chest, and throat.  
5. Focus your attention on your thoughts. As you listen, do they drift to pleasant memories or reflections on the people, experiences, and small joys that have brought you fulfillment? If it feels right, silently repeat phrases like:
   • May I be curious.
   • May I know peace.
   • May I find moments of awe and gratitude.
6. Finally, take a deep breath and gently open your eyes.  As you bring your mindful music practice to a close, return your attention to the present moment. Take a moment to notice how you feel. Perhaps your breath has slowed, your mind feels clearer, or a sense of warmth lingers in your heart. 

Music, much like mindfulness, has the power to anchor us in the present, offering both comfort and connection. Patrick understood this deeply—his love for classical music was a constant in his life, a source of joy and peace. May his playlist serve as a reminder that music can be a refuge, a teacher, and a friend. And as we reflect on his legacy, let us remember: “Patrick’s life, though faced with adversity, was a testament to the power of love, joy, and the human spirit.”

For additional information about mindfulness and music read Bringing Music to the Classroom by Julie Braumberger where you can download a free Mindful Music Lesson and playlist. 

Thank you so much for reading!

Annamarie