Music and your mood – plus a few bonus tracks
Music has been proven to have positive impacts on mood and overall wellbeing.
Source: Unsplash.
Music is everywhere. Thanks to the invention of streaming services, the popularity of platforms like TikTok, and the plethora of instrument tutorials available online – it seems music is more prevalent and accessible now than ever. Not to mention the sheer volume we consume through radio.
It is a privilege to often have music at our fingertips, and it has been proven to be a powerful resource, having positive impacts on mood, wellbeing, and being able to reduce cortisol levels.
To understand music’s role in university life, and how we are impacted by it, Canta interviewed some of UC’s students, most of whom agreed it is a key aspect of their study.
“I only really get shit done when I’m listening to music,” Lucia said.
“It’s not that music helps me focus; I need something to make studying less of a serious environment.”
Megan somewhat agreed, and told Canta: “I think it depends how focused I already am. If I'm like semi-focused, yes, it will be helpful, but if I’m out of it – no. I get distracted if I’m already not focused and there’s music playing.”
Genre can be a factor, too. It was difficult to accept that listening to Elliott Smith for multiple hours a day was not in fact good for my mental health, but the difference in my mood was notable.
So, while there is room for sad artists, for me that must be in moderation. For others, it differs. Lucia said music choice is not usually determined by mood.
“The music I listen to is not usually determined by how I’m feeling, more like what I feel like listening to, and those are two separate things.”
Another noted that for them, genre matters; “when I look at my Spotify Wrapped from high school, when I was super emo, I think, ‘maybe this is why.”
Of course, there’s no one way to enjoy music. But, if you’re looking to try something different, here are some ways to incorporate it into your life:
Create hyper-specific playlists for every situation you could ever dream of. Sure, shuffling your liked songs gets the job done, but the satisfaction of creating the perfect lineup of tunes so distinctly one thing is unmatched. I, for one, have 78 playlists and counting, and I’ve never been happier. And if you don’t know enough songs, that’s okay, there are millions out there waiting for you. If you really don’t know where to start, Spotify has a ‘Discover Weekly’ playlist tailored to your taste, #notsponsored.
Make it a hobby. This does require you to spend money, so choose your instrument wisely. I made the mistake of selecting the piano, so if you’re on a budget – maybe learn to sing. What’s nice about it is that you don’t have to be good. Do I have an inherent talent for piano? No. Have I overcome that, and with hard work and determination become an incredible pianist? Also, no. Does that matter if I enjoy it? No.
Go back to the old days. Physical media is awesome and has a payoff like no other. Not trying to be the guy that yaps on about how vinyl is a unique, superior experience - I don’t partake myself but hunting for old CD’s reminds me of my childhood. When my mum would attempt to get her hands on every new ‘Now That’s What I Call Music’ to add to her ever-growing collection.
See it in person. I know concert tickets are at an all-time high right now, but if you can – do it. On a student budget, this may just be open mic gigs at a random bar, which may not sound as glamorous – but is still a good time.
No matter how you choose to experience it, music has the power to shape your mood. If you are looking for a quick pick-me-up, all it takes could be the right song.
As a sendoff, I’ll leave you with a few of my favourite upbeat songs as of late:
Love is Everywhere by Magdalena Bay. This whole album (Imaginal Disk) is a must for any synth-pop enjoyers, or regular pop fans looking to branch out.
Talk talk by Charli xcx. We may not have been in the right hemisphere for Brat Summer, but that doesn’t mean it can’t extend the stay.
July by Hozier. You might have heard his name a decade ago with Take Me to Church or recently with Too Sweet, but within his discography is a goldmine of poetry with R&B and Blues influences.
Breaking in Brooklyn by Dogpark. A summery anthem from an upcoming American band, with vocals you may recognise from TikToker Eamon Mo.
Touching Yourself by The Japanese House. Imagine if The 1975 not only had a female vocalist but were also gayer.