Published on: 03/02/21
Creating a playlist is a great way to use music for wellbeing in our daily lives. Music has the power to inspire us to move, to lift our mood and to connect us with others. Here are a few ideas to get you started in creating personalised playlists or depending on what you need throughout your day:
1. Wake-up
Create a playlist of music that will motivate you to wake-up and get you ready for the day ahead. Listen to the playlist during your morning routine, while you get dressed, brush your teeth…starting the morning with some of your favourite tunes can help set the tone for the rest of your day.
2. Get Moving
Try using a playlist of music while you exercise. Music may motivate you to exercise for longer periods and may give you something positive to focus on during routine exercises. Think of music that is rhythmic and that makes you want to move!
3. Reach your goals
Music can help inspire us to focus on the goals we set for ourselves. You might think of this playlist as a personalised soundtrack. What music/songs would tell the story of how you are working towards your goals, how you will reach those goals, and how you will feel when you get there?
4. Relax
When we feel stressed music can be an effective way to help us relax. When creating this playlist remember to think of your musical preferences. Music for relaxation often makes us think of classical music but this may not be for everyone. Choose tracks that are relaxing for you. If you can, bring the playlist and some headphones along to situations you know make you stressed so that you have it ready to listen to.
5. Connect with others
Creating a playlist for friends and family can be a very meaningful way to connect. You might choose songs that have special meaning for you, that you associate with positive memories, that make you laugh, that send a particular message, or that gives someone the chance to discover new music that tells them something about you.
6. Sleep
While similar to creating a playlist to relax, creating a separate playlist to listen to when going to bed may be helpful as it will be specific to your sleep routine. Try and choose music that helps you unwind. Some people prefer audio books or calming sounds. There are many apps that combine music with guided meditation specifically for going to sleep. It may take time to find what works for you but again, think of your musical preferences and perhaps try something new!
