Finding a sanctuary in sound

This is an excerpt from my book, Barefoot Living that will launch soon.

“Music can lift us out of depression or move us to tears - it is a remedy, a tonic, orange juice for the ear. But for many of my neurological patients, music is even more - it can provide access, even when no medication can, to movement, to speech, to life. For them, music is not a luxury, but a necessity.” - Oliver Sacks

Creating your own soundtrack at home

There’s nothing quite like the feeling you get when listening to music you deeply love. Music can unlock a memory and help you to express your emotions. Playing music that you enjoy at home will elevate your day to day life, whether you’re cooking, reading, working, relaxing or having dinner with friends. 

When creating your own home playlists, make sure they stay true to yourself. For example, I always include some Latin sounds into my playlists, because it hints to my origin and evokes happy memories. My guests - who are mostly European - also enjoy discovering new sounds and melodies. Avoid your playlists becoming too trendy or pretentious by mixing new tunes with old classics that have stood the test of time.

Music can also be a conversation starter. For your next gathering, create a playlist based on your latest trip, or include a few songs by a local musician or friend. Keep the seasons in mind, making summer playlists more fun and energised while compiling relaxing winter playlists that are perfect for cosy nights in. It can help to have a theme as a starting point, such as Mediterranean music for an outdoor Italian-themed lunch. 

Here are some key playlists I recommend compiling:

〰️ Music that calms you (for reading, relaxing and sleeping) 

〰️ Music that energizes you (for waking up and getting ready, cleaning, cooking and getting the kids ready for school) 

〰️ Music for concentration (for working, painting, creating and kids doing their homework) 

〰️ Music to entertain (for gatherings, celebrations and dinner parties)