What is the connection between stress and music? In his book, Strong Experiences with Music: Music is much more than just music, Gabrielson (2011) suggested that music impacts all psychological experiences. During psychological stress, it is possible to develop an appreciation for music that was not previously compelling (Gabrielson, 2011). An acute response to music can set into motion psychophysiological changes. And it can be a powerful tool to remedy distress.

What are three good reasons to relax and quiet your mind every day? The average person thinks over 6000 thoughts per day (Tseng & Poppenk, 2020). If you get 8 hours of sleep each night, that means in 16 awake hours, you think more than 375 thoughts every hour. Many of those thoughts are negative and repetitive. Your thoughts can be causing you stress. 

I have seen gymnasts perform impossible feats on a four-inch-wide, padded beam. Is there any better example of balance? Sometimes, it feels like walking through life is an exercise in staying upright. But it doesn’t have to feel that way.

It’s summertime in the Northern Hemisphere, and August is a big travel month. You may be looking forward to the destination, but sometimes getting there includes confronting stressors like traffic, weather, crowds, and delays. I could go on, but you get my point. How you internalize the travel experience is reflected in your mood, behavior, and physical well-being.