The brilliance of Baroque music

 So what exactly is Baroque music? Baroque is a style of music that was popular from 1600-1750.  This type of music is recommended for people who have anxiety?  Why?  Well, usually baroque music adheres to the 60 beats per minute tenant and this is relevant because this pace can cause the brain to synchronize with the beat, creating alpha brainwaves. These types of brain waves are present when we are calm and relaxed. 

Interestingly enough,  some of my favorite composers like Haydn, Bach, and Vivaldi are composers of this particular type of music.  The challenge from my anxiety journal today was to listen to some baroque music and let my mind wander while writing.  The problem is, the music opens up my mind by the page provides itty-bitty little writing space.  It made me feel like Genie in Disney's Aladdin. 0 full of promise with nowhere to go.

Then, I remembered that I am, in fact, the author of a blog and I could write my thoughts here while listening to music. I will say that the sounds are very sweet, harmonious, and uplifting. I have made a promise to listen to more classical music and maybe replace some of my angry girl music that probably doesn't help me that much. Sure, angry girl music is great for kickboxing, but when I am writing or walking, I am going to keep with something more positive.

As I am writing, I can feel my breath coming in and out, breathing deep and I feel at peace.  There is still a lot going on in the outside world, but when you listen to something so beautiful and hopeful, I think it helps me see that a species that could create something so profound is capable of more than we have currently become.  We are more than this.  I am more than this.

If my thoughts seem like they are rambling, well, they are.  That was part of the exercise, so I am just going with it. If you haven't listened to classical music for some time, I highly recommend it.  I particularly like Vivaldi's Four Seasons - very beautiful, buoyant, and optimistic. I will definitely be incorporating music into my life more.  I am feeling more sanguine and ready for the rest of the weekend.  Give it a try and let me know if it works for you. 

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