Shape Your Emotions and Mindset with Powerful Experiences

(soft music) Headspace Studio. (soft music) Hi friends, it's Rosie here. Welcome to Radio Headspace and to Wednesday. Today we're going to explore how music shapes our minds and the profound impact it has on our emotions and memories, from the rhythm of walking that connects us to our ancestors, to the beats that make us dance, music is a powerful force in our lives. So the other day I was at the grocery store and I noticed something funny. Every song playing on the radio was a jam I knew by heart. I found myself thinking, wow, they're really playing some epic hits today. Spoken like a true millennial, right? Then it hit me. I've become one of those people now. I remember going to the grocery store as a kid, hearing oldies on the radio, and seeing my parents vibing to the music as we peruse the aisles. Or when we'd visit the Placita Olvera in downtown LA with mariachi music filling the air and life happening all around us. It felt so good. Michael Spitzer, musicologist and academic, explains that the rhythm of walking has stamped human music for millions of years, creating a unique link between sound, motion, and emotion in our brains. Music is not just about sound. It's a journey that takes us from one point to another. I remember training for my first marathon and how crucial music was during my runs. The right playlist could keep me motivated and push me through the toughest miles. Each song was a step on my journey, helping me to move forward and stay focused. I was so methodical in curating my playlist. I would spend hours finding the right songs for the right moments during my runs. I had my mix of high energy tracks to keep my pace and more mellow tunes for those winding down moments. Music was and still is my constant companion, making every step of the way a bit easier and a lot more enjoyable. It wasn't just about filling the silence, it was about creating an experience. Each beat, and each lyric had a purpose, whether it was to uplift me when I felt like quitting, or to calm me, when my nerves were getting the best of me. Even when creating playlists for my yoga classes, I would spend hours selecting the perfect songs to match the flow and energy of each class. The reason is because music connects us deeply to our emotions. It can bring back memories, evoke feelings of joy, sadness, or nostalgia, and even reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels. Sharon Salzburg teaches that music can be a form of mindfulness, helping us to stay present and fully engaged in the moment. when we listen to music, we're not just hearing notes, we're feeling the rhythm of life, the echoes of our past, and the hopes of our future. So here are some tips for practice. Number one, mindful listening. Take time to listen...