We all have a soundtrack to our lives — the music that shapes our internal monologues, memories, and the very way we see the world. The beautiful thing about music is that it’s such a personal experience, so no two “soundtracks” sound the same. Perhaps that’s why the National Institute on Aging recently shared a report about the potential power of music to promote healthy aging?
Of course, you don’t need scientific data to tell you that music has a powerful impact on the mind and body! Just read on as we share some of the best ways to embrace your love of music at your premiere life plan community in St. Petersburg, FL, Westminster Shores.
Practice Your Instrument
Maybe you played an instrument as a kid, or always wanted to but never knew where to start. Well, this is the place to start! From the comfort of your own Westminster Shores apartment or villa, you can enjoy some quality time practicing your piano or violin, for example. Modern technology makes this even easier, since you can pick up an electric keyboard that takes up less space and lets you set the volume to your preferences.
Playing an instrument isn’t just fun, after all: According to a study from the University of South Florida, making music as a senior can reduce stress, improve self-esteem, and provide a host of other benefits as well.
Start A Band
The same study noted that the benefits of music participation only increase when there are more people involved, so why not start a band with your friends, family members, or neighbors? OK, even if it isn’t a proper “band,” you can still have impromptu jam sessions where you get together and play your respective instruments just for fun — and serious mental perks.
Check Out A Local Performance
Westminster Shores is located at the heart of Florida’s thriving Gulf Coast arts and culture scene, so there’s always a fun live performance to check out.
Make A Playlist Of Classic Favorites…
Modern technology makes it easier than ever to revisit classic tunes. You can even make playlists with family and friends, so your loved ones can share music they care about and vice versa!
… Or Discover Something New
At the same time, there’s a lot of modern music to discover! You can make it a regular practice to purchase new CDs or listen to a new album each week, so you’re constantly in the process of discovery.
Engage In Mindful Listening
According to the National Institute on Aging, one 8-week mindful listening program for older adults led to improved connectivity between key parts of the brain — suggesting that there’s a powerful link between music and the mind. So why not dedicate some time each week to sitting down and really focusing on a piece of music — perhaps even journaling your thoughts and observances about the melody, lyrics, instrumentation, and more? You might just find that it has a lasting mental impact.
As you can see, something as simple as a song can have positive, reverberating effects on your entire life — so lean into the power of music here at Westminster Shores! We can’t wait to see where the rhythm takes you.
