Peers talk about: Music
Our fantastic CEO, Managers and Peer Workers talk about how music is important to them, their mental health and wellbeing.
We discuss choir, live music, music to fit your mood, music to change your mood, musicals, bringing people together, festivals, building confidence and much more.
Mark: Mood & Memory
The power of music in relation to our mood is well documented and known for thousands of years. Every civilisation across the globe has its own musical style(s) and history. It can elevate us, sadden us, slow us down, speed us up and everything else in between.
I have listened to music and been involved with bands all my life. In fact, I have used music as a guide to where my mental health is, in particular my Bipolar Disorder. If I am 'low' or 'flat' my loss of interest in music will tell me that. If I am 'high' or 'manic' I will play endless music at full volume for many hours a day. In a 'high' state I will also think I am a fantastic guitarist- which I certainly am not!
Music can be very evocative in prompting memories of time and place. It is something I use to sooth my mind before sleep too. I recently attended an 'Evensong' event with and incredible Choir which filled a space with an amazing level of sound. Joining such a Choir can be wonderful for our mental health, assist with our mood and improve our social lives. Singing ability is not considered- taking part is everything.
In these days of music streaming songs are all around us and easily accessed. Lets use it for the positive asset it can be to our mood and mind
Sarah: Drums
In my spare time, I love to play and African drum called the djembe. I have made so many friends through playing the djembe. It forces me to relax and I get distracted by learning and practising new rhythms.
I set myself a goal to play competently at a festival one year. Which I achieved ! Here's the picture (about 4 years ago now).
I haven't played anywhere near as much since having children. Which makes me sad, but I know it will come back round again.
Here's another picture about how drumming is good for us !!!
Wayne: Gigs
For music enthusiasts, attending live gigs is more than just a form of entertainment; it's a transformative experience that can profoundly impact our mental health. As someone who has personally witnessed the positive effects of live music on my well-being, I believe it's important to explore the benefits of attending live gigs and how they can enhance our emotional and mental state.
There is an indescribable magic that unfolds when you step into a live gig. The atmosphere is charged with energy, and you become enveloped in a collective experience shared by fellow music lovers. It's a space where I found a sense of belonging and connection, a temporary escape from the challenges of everyday life. The power of live gigs lies in the unity they foster, breaking down barriers and eradicating feelings of isolation and loneliness. The crowd's energy becomes contagious, filling the air with excitement and joy, lifting my spirits and providing a sanctuary for my mental health.
The emotional resonance of live performances is unparalleled. The lyrics, melodies, and rhythms take on a whole new dimension when witnessed first-hand. I've found myself moved to tears, my heart swelling with emotions as the music washes over me. These moments offer a release, a catharsis for pent-up feelings and stresses. The surge of positive emotions and the rush of endorphins during live gigs have an incredible impact on my mood, leaving me feeling uplifted, inspired, and refreshed.
Moreover, live gigs provide a space for self-expression and empowerment. When I attend a live gig, I'm encouraged to let go of inhibitions and fully immerse myself in the music. I dance, sing, and connect with the artist and the crowd around me. In those moments, I feel a sense of liberation, an embrace of my true self. The environment nurtures individuality and boosts self-esteem, fostering a positive body image. It's an empowering experience that leaves a lasting impression on my mental well-being.
Attending live gigs also offers a reprieve from the constant distractions of the digital world, allowing me to practice mindfulness and be fully present in the moment. As the music resonates through my being, I become acutely aware of the present. Worries and anxieties fade away as I immerse myself in the rhythm and energy of the performance. It's a meditative state that brings clarity, relaxation and a profound sense of inner peace. It’s a great way of meeting like-minded people and regular attendance to gigs may lend its way to making new friends.
Through my personal journey of attending live gigs, I've come to realise the transformative power of music on mental health. The collective experience, emotional resonance, stress relief, self-expression, and mindfulness that live performances provide create a holistic and healing experience. If you haven't yet experienced the joy of a live gig, I encourage you to immerse yourself in the magic of music and witness its positive impact on your own mental well-being. Let the rhythm and melodies guide you on a journey of self-discovery, connection, and healing.
Recommended venues: Dover Booking Hall, Quarter House Folkestone, W3 Gig guide or just look around at your local pubs for live music nights.
Amanda: DJing & Anxiety
I have been in bands or involved in music in some capacity for most of my life. In the last few years I’ve been DJing, playing vinyl that I’ve collected over the years.
I have always known intuitively that music is good for the soul but research has revealed that it’s really good for our brain too! Music literally lights up the brain, activating just about all of the brain pathways keeping them strong.
Music has been proven to reduce anxiety and when we listen to it, our body releases dopamine, our feel good chemical. Music also increases cognitive function and as someone who falls into the ‘over 50s’ bracket, this is great news. Interests, hobbies and people have come and gone but music remains a deep love, as if my body always knew my wellbeing relied on it for soul as well as brain food!
Dieta: A Poem
What Music Means to me
Music is my coping strategy, that's what music means to me.
Release from the pain, happiness I gain, through the sunshine and in the rain. Heart felt, my heart may melt, releasing those feelings, getting them out. Digging me out of a hole giving me control, giving me purpose restoring my soul. All different styles everyone's unique, giving me a voice when I struggle to speak. Releasing my pain through the songs words, making me feel listened to, making me heard. Many emotions such fulfilment, a healing remedy, the perfect ointment. Whether it be a song I find relaxing at noon, or shaking my head to my favourite tune. Charging my brain uplifting my ear drums, healing my mind, opening my lungs.
Painting beautiful horizons cleansing my mind, helping me feel relieved, helping me unwind.
Getting away from all life's madness, enjoying good times and coping with the sadness. A tender tribute to the one I lost, as I play your music so tender and soft. Echoes gently caressing my ear. expressions of myself and those far and near.
It makes me laugh it makes me cry, it makes me sing it makes me high. It entwines my body soaks my mind, until I can finally set sail and leave the world behind. Energised, reborn wild and free, that's what music means to me Music feeds my appetite, soothes my days, enlightens my night. Paints a picture vivid and bright, conquers dark shadows making them light. Whether it be pop, drum and bass, blues or R&B, Heavy metal, Jazz, Rock or Country. There's something for you and there's some for me, helping me live helping me be. Music sends me on a journey, from my aching heart I can flee. It takes me along a narrow path, opens things up and showers me with love. Sweeps away the waves that try and cover me, it turns an I into a we. A feeling so bitter sweet, making me move and rise from my seat. Making me sing making me dance, in the shower washing my legs and arms. Using a shower head pretending I have got a mic, enjoying myself, doing what I like. My singing might be a secret and it might not sound perfect, but when it comes to my mental health it's definitely well worth it. It stimulates my senses, it's my cup of tea, that's what music really means to me. So whenever you want to express yourself turn your music on, and go and listen to your favourite songs The future brighter as far as I can see, it’s in the lyrics and the melody.
We're doing a series of other peer experiences, help guides and recovery journeys over time so check our blog for updates!