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When life gets noisy can music really help us find some quiet?

  • Writer: Helen Abbott
    Helen Abbott
  • 4 days ago
  • 4 min read
Nocturne: Badger and the Moon
Nocturne: Badger and the Moon

With busy weeks and full minds, music can often be just background noise — something playing while we do something else. But when we pause and take time to really listen, music becomes something different altogether. It can steady our breathing calm our overactive minds, and help us to feel more relaxed. This is an invitation to do just that: to slow down, to listen with intention, and to allow carefully chosen music to support our wellbeing in a quiet, restorative way. Down at the bottom is a link to a playlist I hope you will enjoy. The old fashioned mix tape for the 21st century is now an online playlist. Make your own or listen to mine... I think I've chosen some great music ... do you agree with them?


Music is an important part of my day , whether it is the background to a painting, music to listen to while I work, music for motivation or just music to pass a journey it features in our everyday life but listening can become just background noise.


The past few days, I have spent choosing from some of my favourite tracks to curate a playlist that I can turn to when life gets busy. Over on instagram and facebook

and myself have been focusing on something easy and achievable which everyone can focus on for their wellbeing. We have done this for ourselves each Wednesday and doing this with someone else it gives us some accountability. That single focus has had a ripple effect that goes beyond that day. I think during the week of other ways I can improve my wellness on that day, but that little bit of focus means I am doing more of them the rest of the week too, do you find this also happens? That ripple effect is just perfect.


My play list (Link at the bottom of the page) includes a number of artists you may not have heard of before even though you may have heard their music. Ed Blunt and Daisy Chute I had the absolute pleasure of playing with in May when Wolverton Light Orchestra accompanied them. The amazing Filkins Drift I was introduced to by Jo McCarthy and I'm so glad she did! We found they were playing nearby and went to see them. A few of their pieces reminded me of Andrew Bird and I wasnt surprised to find out later that he was an influence. Another piece I included was the beautiful Altair Sunset by Stan Lee Harris. This piece I was asked to paint a picture for, the music being from a new ballet being performed in August by the Brisbane Ballet Company. The wonderful quiet music of Nica was a spotify find.... you know that moment when your play list has ended and it magically offers you similar music. Malachi Bance’s music is calm, gentle, and atmospheric. It has a soft, flowing quality that feels soothing and reflective, making it easy to slow down, breathe, and simply listen. Other artists include Nathan Johnson, Bibio, Rene Aubry and the wonderful band FIZZ.



WLO with Daisy Chute and Ed Blunt (May 2025 - A Music Garden special)

Why Music Is So Important for Wellbeing?


1. Music calms the nervous system. Slow, gentle music can lower heart rate and blood pressure, helping the body shift out of “fight or flight” and into a more restful state.

2. It gives the mind something soft to rest on. Unlike screens or conversation, music doesn’t demand decisions or responses. It gives the brain a place to settle, wander, and breathe.

3. Music helps regulate emotions. Music can hold feelings we don’t yet have words for — comfort sadness, soothe anxiety, or gently lift low moods without forcing cheerfulness.

4. It creates a sense of safety and familiarity. Favourite pieces or calming sounds signal to the body that it’s safe to relax, especially helpful during stressful or overwhelming times.

5. It supports mindfulness.Listening intentionally — noticing melody, rhythm, or tone — anchors us in the present moment, much like meditation.

6. Music connects us to memory and meaning.Certain pieces remind us of places, people, or moments of peace, helping us reconnect with ourselves and what matters most.

7. It nurtures creativity. Music opens emotional and imaginative space, making it easier to paint, write, reflect, or simply daydream.


So often music becomes background noise. But when we choose to sit and truly listen, even for just 10 minutes, something shifts.

·       Breathing naturally slows

·       Muscles soften

·       Thoughts loosen their grip

·       The body feels cared for

Listening becomes an act of self-kindness — a pause in a busy day.


And heres Youtube links



Find some of the artists here... I'm sure they would appreciate a follow.


and of course go follow the wonderful https://www.instagram.com/drbethdawson/ my Wellness Wednesday buddy!



 
 
 

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