The Meditative Magic of Creating Music

Art is a medium too many of us think we have no time for, but it can be a powerful—often necessary—outlet. Creating music is my art, one that allows me to express myself in a way nothing else can. It’s not bound by any daily stress or external pressure.

There are no deadlines, no goals, and there are certainly no rules.

And there’s nothing quite like holding an instrument itself—having a guitar in hand, with limitless possibilities at my fingertips.

I may not be seated, and I’m definitely not in silence, but music is my meditation, and creating it can be just as transcendent.

Music is Therapy

There’s plenty of research that supports the theory that making and playing music can be incredibly therapeutic, for both the brain and body. In fact, there’s a whole form of therapy devoted to it.

Studies have found that playing an instrument can lower blood pressure, decrease heart rate, reduce stress, and ease anxiety and depression. It may even improve your memory, reduce pain, and boost your immune system.

But beyond the science, there’s a sense of discovery and excitement when sitting down with an instrument. The best part is there’s no need to be trained. I often strive to play with more technical skill, and while this challenge is good, it sometimes holds me back from pure, raw musical expression.

Music is Pleasure

Divorcing yourself from all expectations—from family, work, and all the mundane daily chores and activities—is essential for being able to listen to yourself and to connect with your true inner being.

I start to feel this almost immediately when I grab my guitar. All stresses start to melt away. And it’s not just about the music I play, but the actual tangible connection with the instrument.

When playing the guitar, I feel the music literally in my hands. It’s a different, more potent type of pleasure than when I’m making music on a laptop. For me, it’s the physical playing of the instrument itself that is part of the whole expressive release.

Music is Balance

It only takes a few minutes for me to start to feel the meditative magic of playing an instrument, to feel my muscles relaxing and my inner self start to take over.

It’s a moment in time that I can escape from the real world while I face it head on. This is the essence of therapy and it’s the power of creativity. All you need to do is pick up an instrument and just play.

About the Author: Julian Garr is an ESL teacher who loves traveling, observing, making music, and enjoying a good cup of coffee. Check him out on YouTube at Big & Small Travel or on Amazon for his Business English e-book.