What’s Your “Fight Song”?

This week’s topic is both powerful and personal. Music can do many things. It can console your grief or loneliness, bring you peace and calmness, help you express your feelings when words aren’t enough, and encourage you to get your body moving. It also can do wonders for your self-care.
 
I’m the first to admit that I’m not what you might call “musical.” I’m married to someone who has perfect pitch, and he’s great for me to stand next to when I’m singing. He will always drown me out.
 
Still, I’ve been known to belt out the lyrics to a favorite song in my car from time to time, and I’ve come to recognize that music fills my soul in a very personal way. I think it’s that way for all of us.
 
For caregivers, music can help reduce stress and anxiety. The music we choose can influence our moods. Music also can help us meditate or participate in other mindfulness activities. Many people use “yoga music” when falling asleep or as white noise to block other unwanted sounds.
 
A growing field known as music therapy uses music in a therapeutic environment to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. Music therapy promotes communication by providing an avenue to express emotions that may otherwise be difficult to share. It also improves the ability to manage uncomfortable feelings and regain control of emotions. For more information, check out the music therapy program at The Music Settlement here in Cleveland.
 
And as a final note, if you’re wondering what songs I find inspirational, uplifting, and motivating, here’s a playlist I started a few years ago when I began my journey with Courage to Caregivers:
 
- “This Is My Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
- “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman by Benj Pasek /Justin Paul
- “Live it Well” by Switchfoot
- “Inner Demons” by Julia Brennan
- “Good News” by Ocean Park Stand
- “Heavy” by Linkin Park
- “No Good in Goodbye” by The Script
- “I believe in YOU” by Michael Buble
- “Hold On Forever” by Rob Thomas
- “Life’s About to Get Good” by Shania Twain
- “One More Light” by Linkin Park
- “You Say” by Lauren Daigle
- “Anyone Have a Map” from Dear Evan Hansen by Benj Pasek / Justin Paul
 
I’d love to know what’s on YOUR playlist!