The Power of (Happy) Music
Every time I re-read the Harry Potter books, I’m struck by the emotional depth of what was meant to be a children’s series. The first book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, is one of my favorites, and it’s full of wisdom from my hero, Albus Dumbledore.
One of my favorite Dumbledore quotes in the Philosopher’s Stone is about the power of music, which was the topic of my last blog. In the scene, while listening to the Hogwarts School song, Dumbledore began to cry. “‘Ah music,’ he said, wiping his eyes. ‘A magic beyond all we do here!’” I couldn’t agree more.
Most of us have that one song that fills us with joy. Maybe it’s something nostalgic–a song you danced to at your wedding, or one that reminds you of your childhood. Although most people would say time travel doesn’t exist yet, I would argue that it does, in the form of music. The right song can transport us anywhere.
Music is powerful; nearly every country in the world has identified the healing power of music in some way. There’s been lots of evidence to support the fact that music makes us happier, but the impacts can go much further. Studies are finding that music can help improve motor and cognitive function after strokes and reduce depression in patients suffering from dementia. It can also help calm road rage, improve energy levels, and increase mental focus.
Last week, I made a whole playlist of songs that remind me of my childhood, and specifically of my dad, who has always loved music. For the past few days, that playlist has been in the background while I’ve studied, gone for drives, or walked to class. It’s not exactly my normal gym music, but I’ve even played it while on the treadmill.
My results are exactly what the studies I referenced above would have predicted. When listening to music that reminds me of happy times, I feel happier. For example, I’ve always been told I’m a pretty aggressive (I prefer to call it “efficient”) driver. I’m not a fan of indecisive drivers, or folks who “rest their eyes” at red lights before proceeding to slowly “wake up” when it’s time to go. But this week, while listening to my happy playlist, I have been much more forgiving.
As I’ve walked to class, I’ve found myself smiling more, even with all the rain we’ve been having in Chapel Hill. I like to think that a little bit of that happiness has transferred to those around me. Not to become cheesy, but that is really why I chose to do this project in the first place. I believe that anything we do to share happiness makes a difference in the world.
Most of us probably enjoy listening to music, but fewer of us curate playlists with the intent of increasing joy. In the past, I’ve just picked random Spotify-generated playlists and called it good enough. But at the end of the day, why not? It takes only a few minutes to slap together a playlist that makes us happy, and with the lasting impacts, it’s something I think everyone should make a priority.