MINDY PETERSON, NCTM

Photo by Binti Malu from Pexels

July 14, 2020

Sometimes just a small habit adjustment can have a significant course-correction effect. Michael Franti says, “The best songs have positive messages hidden inside, like a positive affirmation.” Meaningful words combined with a melody have the ability to integrate messages into our minds in a unique and powerful way.

Guest

My guest today is Dr. Jamie Goldstein, a licensed clinical psychologist who lives and works in the San Francisco Bay Area. Currently, she maintains a small private practice, functions as the Therapy Experience Lead for Coa, and volunteers and the acting Continuing Education Committee Chair for the Alameda County Psychological Association. Additionally, Dr. Goldstein’s author debut came with the release of “Positive Psychology in Practice: Simple Tools to Pursue Happiness and Live Authentically.” Dr. Goldstein’s second work is planned for release in Fall 2020.

Notes

• We discuss the relationship between lyrics and positive psychology.
• Conscious music as a genre is creative, motivational music with the aim to raise the level of human consciousness. “A strong message conveyed by a meaningful song can bring about positive change in your life.” Rockersmovement.com
• Ep. 20: Music Heals the Soul, with Steve Siler: Steve discusses the science behind music’s healing power (words/language are processed by the left side of brain; trauma resides primarily in right side of brain, which also processes melody).
• “Words make you think a thought. Music makes you feel a feeling. A song makes you feel a thought.”– Y. Harburg, who wrote the lyrics to “Over the Rainbow”
• Conscious music can very much be a spiritual experience (mindful worship is a big part of many faith traditions, including the Christian and Jewish faiths).
• The Chimp Paradox book, by Dr. Steve Peters, is referenced.
• We like to talk and need to talk about big picture policies, like vaccines and bailouts and mental health reform and police reform. But in doing that I don’t want to overlook the power of something as accessible and immediate as conscious music and its power to decrease our stress levels, anxiety, confusion, and violence; and increase our general happiness, mental and emotional well-being, and spiritual clarity.
• We get to choose the soundtrack of our life, and it does affect our thoughts and frame of mind and perspective.
• Music and Mindfulness: Listen to Music, Mindfully
• Jamie mentions Jon Bellion’s music, and also the song “Makeba” by Jain

Connect

• https://www.drjamiegoldstein.com/
• Learn more about emotional fitness
• Positive Psychology in Practice: Simple Tools to Pursue Happiness and Live Authentically

Coda

Similarly to many others, music has always been a powerful part of my life; for so many reasons. One of the top reasons is the way in which music can express feelings when we find ourselves at a loss for words. One song that always speaks to me is Holy by Jamila Woods. It’s a beautiful song that speaks to the power of self-love.

Closing Words

Thanks so much to Dr. Goldstein for sharing her time and expertise and stories with us today. If you’re a person of faith, this info can be applied to mindfully integrating messages of spiritual truth and inspiration. Some of my favorites artists for spiritually inspiring music and messaging are Danny Gokey, TobyMac, and Lauren Daigle.

I’d love to hear about the intentional songs you listen to that have the greatest impact on your perspective and well-being. You can connect with me on social media, email, and my website.

Thank you so much for joining me today. Until next week, may your life be enhanced with music.

 

 

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