220: Music for Relaxation - The Science of Meditation

"Music hath charms to soothe the savage breast; to soften rocks or bend a knotted oak" - William Congreve

Listening to music is a totally subjective experience. Everyone has their individual tastes. However, when it comes to relaxing there are certain similarities that evoke a relaxation response.

Today I will talk about the choices that are available for meditation music and more interestingly how that music triggers responses in the body aimed at either hyping you up or the ZEN commuter favorite, mellowing you out.

Listen to a fascinating overview of "the brain on music"

" Feelings come and go like clouds in a windy sky. Conscious breathing is my anchor" - Thich Nhat Hanh

There are many directives for stress relief that seem cliche. If you are feeling anxious or stressed you often hear people say to take a deep breath. In your head you're thinking,

"Yeah, like a deep breath is going to do anything to stop me from freaking out."

The truth is, it will. It is backed my science and medical study. Breathing creates a relaxation response in the body.

This week I am going to give you a deeper look at the elements of meditation from a scientific standpoint, not strictly a metaphysical one.

"The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why." - Mark Twain

I am not sure I could be any clearer about how following your passion leads to a life of purpose and joy. I certainly said it enough this past week. As I mentioned in this episode there are two different types of people: those who know what they want to do for a living and are to afraid to pursue that dream, and those who have know idea what they want to do.

Today's episode is for the latter. I will discuss a three part process that will have you discovering what your passion is and how to implement it.