We entered singing. My sister and I had ascended the stairs into the “great room” of Belmont Village to visit our grandmother, and the joint was jumping. Residents had gathered to hear the musical stylings of a guest singer. It was impossible to refrain, so why try? We opened our voices and danced over to her. (It is easy to spot her, the redhead, from behind, or really from any direction.)
When she saw us, she bestowed her perennial gift, a contagious, nearly-crying smile that says better than words can, “I’m so happy to see you.”
I needed that. Then the singer said, “Remember, music is the best medicine.” I needed that, too. This past Sunday, at dance class, the music, the dancing, the singing along. I need it. You know you need it, too. These are trying times. Play your music loud and often.
Without further ado, a (starter) playlist for stressful times. Play loud. Play often. Dance. Sing. Repeat.
- Michael Jackson (just about anything, but let’s go with Wanna Be Starting Something
- And another Michael Jackson, Black or White
- American Authors, Best Day of My Life
- Marvin Gaye, How sweet it is (to be loved by you)
- Stevie Wonder, Signed, Sealed, Delivered.
- Kinky Boots, Raise You Up
(And, for a change, try a nice quiet 10-12 minutes with the Calm App gratitude meditation. Be grateful for your lungs, and legs, and all the other parts needed for dancing your stress away.)
Love,
Laura
Laura Nicole Diamond 