We like to be in control. It gives us a sense of order in an all-too-unpredictable world.

There has been no shortage of change – unexpected change – this year, and with the change comes tremendous stress, uncertainty and disruption. Plans cancelled, events postponed, schedules totally irrelevant. 

 In the early weeks of Covid, many of us thought this disruption would end by April. As time, and uncertainty continues, we have modified our behavior to accommodate the ‘new normal’. That means most of our interactions are virtual, and our activities are carried out remotely.

Stage Music Center offers live music and singing lessons that create routine, sense of accomplishment and joy.

Frustrated and fatigued, we juggle myriad roles: professional, caregiver, housekeeper, tutor, and in many households, peacekeeper. Anecdotally, I hear many parents who are at the end of their rope with the mounting responsibilities of keeping children educated, entertained and stimulated. Additionally, most summer camps, sports and lessons were canceled, and many families decided on staycations, rather than the usual summer travel.   As the start of the school year approaches, the majority of the state’s school will operate either remotely or use a hybrid model of in-person and distance learning. 

With each day feeling just like the one before, and nerves further fraying, both adults and kids are finding ways to bring creativity and joy into daily life.

Since the spring, Stage Music Center has successfully offered live remote private music lessons. Our incredible music teachers are excited to start the traditional school year with untraditional, but proven ways to spark your child’s joy and creativity with their chose musical instrument, or singing lessons.

Uncertain and difficult times call for routine. Routine makes us feel ‘normal.’ Adding or maintaining a routine that includes a music practice can you stay active, better manage your emotions, and establish some predictability to combat the uncertainty. 

Here’s why developing a music routine helps you through a stressful time.

Keep Up With Your Normal Tasks, or Establish a New one.

When things are in disarray, it can be easy to overlook the everyday routines you are already involved in. However, even when we can’t control some things, we can control how we spend our time.  Just as it’s important to eat meals at your usual times, and sleep regularly, continue to stay involved in activities you’re used to, or explore something new.  When you’re involved in a hobby or creative pursuit, you may find yourself less stressed and feel a sense of accomplishment. It’s important to make time for fun, like watching a favorite movie, enjoying a hobby, or sharing an activity with family and friends.  

A Music Practice Can Promote Mindfulness.

It’s hard to stress when you actively enjoy something. When you dedicate time each day in a music practice, it engages your attention, and keeps you in the present moment. Think of how accomplished you feel when you practice then master a new skill.

Music Can Be Shared

Face it. By now your entire family is stressed. Music is something you and your child can share. I remember the joy I felt listening to my son practice ‘Satin Doll’ on the saxophone. Music lifts the spirits, and gives everyone in your household a way to be involved by either playing an instrument, or showing some music appreciation. This can have positive effects on both our physical and mental health, especially when things are hectic.

Aside from saving you from stress, playing, even listening to music encourages you to take a break, and offer new challenges and experiences. You can explore your talents, and improve other skills, like math and reasoning.

Screens have become not just a diversion, but mandatory to learning. When you take a steaming class, it’s less time on video games. And would that be a nice change?

Increased memory, confidence and self-esteem are other benefits.

The blog Positively Present outlines more benefits of taking up any kind of hobby, including music.

Instead of dwelling on what we can’t do these days, let’s take a look forward, and play on.

Related Posts

Distance Learning: Live Music Lessons

Power of Music in Uncertain Times