MUSIC BATH: a noun
1. the immersion of the mind with sound that expresses ideas & emotions in significant forms through elements of rhythm, melody, harmony, and color.
2. see also this post
Isn’t it crazy how certain songs can flood your mind with memories/thoughts/allll the emotions but also bring you to your knees?
When I hear certain songs, examples being:
Gloria Estefan: I always remember trying to salsa dance with my sister, Alissa, around our living room while my dad vacuumed around us. [The Rhythm is Going to Get You was his Saturday morning cleaning song]. My poor dad, I’m sure it took him a lot longer to vacuume then it should have with us flailing around.
You Are My Sunshine: My uncle Rodney. Rodney passed away about seven years ago, but I will forever remember him playing You Are My Sunshine on his accordion for us when we were little. It was always a request, and we would sing along at the tops of our lungs. The Christmas Song by Alvin and the Chipmunks: He would also dedicate this song to us over the radio every Christmas. We would hear his voice boom through the car speakers as we drove home from my grandparents, “This next one is dedicated to the three little chipmunks that I know… ” Tony now knows if he plays that song around Christmas, he should fully expect tears.
Bob Marley: SO MANY Saturday afternoons at the lake were spent with Bob Marley jammin’ through speakers. I picture my goofy uncles, yard games with my cousins, boat rides, and late night bonfires.
I could go on…
Music has always been a part of my life, but it’s also been a form of religion for me the past five years. It’s made me strong when I’ve been weak. It’s given me a boost when I can’t stand. It’s always there, and it’s always helped get me through one way or the other.
Music baths are something I’ve done quite often, but definitely not often enough. If you read my original definition and linked post, I’m sure you get the idea. In a music bath, you need to shut your brain off completely. Your music needs to be loud. You are not allowed to make a to-do list, stress, talk, text, scroll, etc… You must fully immerse your brain with the music of choice and simply, let go.
The past week has dealt us some cards were weren’t expecting, and even though I already know time heals, it doesn’t make the game any easier to play.
But, in the past week, music baths have found me. They’ve soothed me. They’ve comforted me.
I share this in hopes they’ll do the same for others 🙂
xo
