Music is a powerful therapeutic tool. It can reflect feelings we are struggling to express or change our mood. Music is emotion, connection, healing.
For those who use Spotify, it’s that time of year when you get your rundown of what songs and artists you spent the most time listening to. If you use YouTube for music, they give a similar list – I am not sure about other platforms.
Anyway, many people find themselves feeling contemplative during this time of year. We look back on what we accomplished, how we spent our time, and what has changed. I’ve seen many commenting on how their yearly playlist reflects this.
If you have a therapist, you might consider sharing your year-end wrap with them. Together, you can explore how the music represents how the year has been for you, the good, the bad, the terrifying, the wonderful. Notice any themes that came up for you in the soundtrack of your life. Notice anything that surprises you, or anything you regret.
If you’re just starting therapy, your playlist could provide background and context for any life events that contributed to your decision to reach out. If you don’t have a therapist, you can still reflect on your end-of-year playlist as you prepare for the new year.
What do you want to bring with you into 2023? What will you leave behind?
That’s all for now.