In a recent Mel Robbins episode called “How to Stop Negative Thoughts & Reset Your Mind for Positive Thinking,” Mel interviews Dr. Ethan Kross, a renowned neuroscientist and psychologist.
Dr. Kross offered various tools one can use to shift out of negative thoughts and into a positive mindset. One of those tools is utilizing impactful sensory experiences, such as music. When we play or listen to music, it can greatly impact our emotions and change our mood.
“Music effortlessly shifts our emotions,” Dr. Kross explains.
He gave the example of a time when he was in the car with his daughter. She was in a bad mood and it was bringing him and everyone else down. Then all of a sudden the song “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey started playing on the radio and everyone was lifted out of the negativity and into a better mood.
It took hearing just one song that they all loved to clear the tension and feel happy. That’s how powerful music is; it can affect our emotions without us even trying.
That’s why I believe that playing piano, and in particular covers of your favorite songs, can have such a positive impact on your well-being.
After hearing Mel Robbin’s interview with Dr. Kross, I felt inspired to record a short lesson on how to play a section of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.” If this song lifts your spirits too, I encourage you to learn this on the piano. It’s easy enough for a beginner!