It’s weird when you meet someone who says something utterly insane like, “I don’t really listen to music.” It doesn’t happen very often, thankfully, but it’s jarring to think that people are walking around that don’t enjoy slapping on a new album and rocking out, or sitting back and relaxing with something laid-back and soulful. Music is the soundtrack of our life.
“Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.” – Victor Hugo
The problem is that music is pretty much a passive activity. Most of us struggle to find the time to simply sit and absorb a new album without having something else to do. The question is, what can you do when you want to focus on the tunes but don’t want to stare at the walls? Here are some answers you might not have thought of.
Dance
Music allows people to express emotions in a way that no other artistic medium does. Sometimes, it feels like it’s pouring straight from a musician’s soul, and that means the only activity you should be doing is dancing. Whether it’s the latest doom metal or some old-school 80’s hip-hop, it’s always wise to follow the advice of one of the most masterful and creative musicians in living memory:
“Let’s dance.” – David Bowie
Dancing is a release, but it’s also good for your mind and body. It can boost energy levels, help fight depression, and it’s a type of exercise that anyone can do.
Play Games
If you don’t think that music and games go together, then you haven’t seen those professional console players battling it out on the big screen with their AirPods dangling from their lobes. Music and games are always a good combination because you can match your genre and mood to the style of the game.
“The wise musicians are those who play what they can master.” – Duke Ellington
There is no end to the types of games that you play as you turn the volume on loud. Try sticking on your favorite album and playing some online slots games, and you might even make a little side-hustle cash as you blast the latest album release directly into your brain. Unlike reading a book, where you’ll zone out of either the music or the words on the page, games and music go hand in hand and can even complement one another.
Move
There are always going to be some people who are happy to pour a large brandy, sit back in their favorite chair, and listen to their album of choice in utter contentment. That’s not really practical or interesting enough for most people, and that’s why the last suggestion on this list is simply to move. Music is movement, so put the volume on 11, fling open the windows, and give your house a good clean. Go for a run. Get in the car and hit the open road.
“They teach you there’s a boundary line to music. But, man, there’s no boundary line to art.” – Charlie Parker
Dance, run, or even just go for a walk while your current playlist washes over you. You might be surprised by how positively it affects you.
There isn’t much in life that is finer than the right music at the right time. If you’re feeling a bit lost and don’t know what to do with yourself next time you just fancy some quality music, start with these tips and get ready to get more enjoyment from the music, the activity, and from life itself.
