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.
