1-10-2023 8:04pm

The Benefits of Music

Christine Larkin Editor

SKYLARK'S FEATURED ARTICLE OF THE WEEK - THE BENEFITS OF MUSIC

Most of us really dig music and find it comforting, but did you ever stop and think about the benefits of music? They say music soothes the savage beast. This phrase was actually coined by the English playwright and poet named William Congreve who was prevalent during the Restoration period. The Restoration period in England began with the reinstatement of Charles II and spanned 28 years of the 17th century (1660 to 1688). Congreve is known for his clever, satirical dialogue and influence on the comedy manners style of that period. He was also a minor political figure in the British Whig Party. But this isn't about politics.

That's me pictured above singing with the Robert Anderson Jazz Band in New York City. I sang for many years with a variety of jazz bands including with folk legend, Pete Seeger. I got my start in Junior High School performing in the choir and drama club. I especially love musical theatre. Music taught me to be very present. When I sing, it's like prayer. You are in non-thought. The music takes over, and you are in a blissful state of mind. At least that's what it feels like to me. It's the best meditation there is. For me, it's always about the song.

Music has so many benefits. It has a profound affect on our well-being and can transform our mood. We all know what it feels like when we hear one of our favorite songs. We are immediately uplifted. Our energy increases and so does our awareness. We may suddenly be thrusted into a memory that a song provokes, and in a moment, we are transported back in time. Music can boost the brain's production of the hormone dopamine that is a type of neurotransmitter. Dopamine plays a role in many other important body functions including movement, memory, and pleasurable reward and motivation. Music can elevate levels of dopamine.

Music is also good for our heart. Research has shown that blood flows more easily when music is played. It makes sense that music has such benefits on the heart since the heart is the first organ to function after conception. Within about 20 days after conception, the heart starts to function, but the brain does not function until after roughly 90 days. This information tells us that the brain is secondary to the heart. Imagine that. Our heart feels the music.

Music also reduces stress and can relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety. Music therapy is used by certified music therapists to enhance conventional treatment for a variety of illnesses and disease processes including pain management and enhancement of functioning after degenerative neurologic disorders.

All of these benefits of music are why we feel so good when we hear a song that moves us. The average song is just around three minutes long, but it has the power to transform your entire life. I suggest you play some of your favorite songs more often. There's probably nothing better than a great song to get you out of a blue mood. Speaking of blues, I posted one of my all-time favorite songs below by the late, great Stevie Ray Vaughan. The best blues man ever, in my opinion. I was in Tuscany, Italy when he passed away in a helicopter crash in August 1990. Scroll down to listen to his sublime instrumental, Riviera Paradise. It will soothe the savage beast in you.

La musica calma la bestia feroce! Arrivederci alla prossima!

Peace and Love,

Skylark

At 60 and Beyond, playing some of your favorite songs might be the best way to stay happier and feel more youthful.

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SKYLARK'S PICK OF THE WEEK - LOONEY TUNES RECORD STORE

Just off Montauk Highway in West Babylon is a music oasis. Looney Tunes Record Store has been around for more than 50 years. Family owned and operated since 1971, their motto is "Where Music & Fun Are One!" It's true. From the moment you walk in the door, you are greeted by some of the most friendly and knowledgeable staff who treat you like an old friend. It's a great place to hang out. You just might find that rare album you've been looking for.

Looney Tunes is located at 31 Brookvale Avenue in West Babylon, NY 11704. Check them out at www.looneytuneslongisland.com or call them at 631-587-7722. I hope to bump into someday.

SKYLARK'S INSPIRATION OF THE WEEK

At the end of our lives, it won't really matter how many toys we have or even what we have achieved. It will matter that we appreciated this one precious life. It will matter that we enjoyed and explored being human. Love and experience; that's it. Let's not give up on our dreams. Let's keep moving toward them. Just play the game lightly with little attention to the score.

-Tania Yardley

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SKYLARK'S SONG OF THE WEEK - RIVIERA PARADISE BY STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN (instrumental)

Welcome to my weekly newsletter, Skylark Live Town News, representing Bay Shore and the surrounding towns. My articles are about human interest, nature, general observations, inspiration, music, and places I've been to. There is also a calendar of upcoming events. Please consider becoming a Subscriber. There are several levels, and it’s easy to do. Just open the newsletter and the Subscribe button is there. As a Subscriber, you will receive a copy of my newsletter each Wednesday morning in your email. You can also advertise your business or event here as well. You can do it yourself or email me to discuss this at christineskylark@aol.com. You can also PM me.

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