Plato once said, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings in its mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” This quote captures what many of us feel, but can’t put into words. Music isn’t just a background noise; it resonates with our emotions, lifting us in our highest moments and comforting us through our darkest times. Music can convey our deepest feelings, guiding those who navigate various mental states. Teenagers, in particular, may become deeply invested in music, as it serves as a powerful emotional coping mechanism during a period of development and change. So, what music can support teenagers through different situations? Here are songs that have been a guiding force for me during these moments in life.
1. Songs to Calm the Mind and Lift the Soul
These tracks provide emotional comfort, reduce anxiety, and offer moments of peace through emotional healing. This style of music aligns with research showing that it can lower stress hormones and activate the body’s natural relaxation response.
“Rises the Moon” by Liana Flores
A lullaby-like indie song with soft vocals and gentle guitar, this song is a reminder that it’s okay to feel and to rest. This song can help lower stress levels and promote a sense of peace.
“Starman” by David Bowie
This classic song delivers a warm feeling of curiosity and hope. It lets your mind travel through a vast, mysterious, and wonder-filled universe.
“Just Like Heaven” by The Cure
This song feels like floating and twirling in sunlit clouds, feeling light on your feet, and has a whimsical, delightful tone to lift low moods. This eases the mind and prompts you to think about the positive aspects of life.
“Je te laisserai des mots” by Patrick Watson
The delicate background piano playing and soft French singing come together in this ethereal ballad, creating a tender and comforting sensation. This song is a stress reliever for calming, anxious, and lonely moments.
2. Tunes to Spark New Ideas
Whether you’re stuck on finishing up a project, overthinking an essay for language arts, or need to get some ideas flowing, these songs can help. Each song has a different vibe that can help clear mental clutter and expand your creativity.
“Time” by Hans Zimmer
This instrumental starts slow and soft but builds up like you’re wandering through space and time. This song helps you through intense moments and dig deeper into your thoughts.
“Engagement Party” by Justin Hurwitz
This light, jazzy song offers a boost of motivation with a snappy rhythm, encouraging you to shake off any creative stress and try something new.
“Sunlight” by Christopher Slaski
This piece feels like the sun coming out on a cloudy day–uplifting and energy-bursting. It brings an enlightened feeling of warmth, organizing thoughts to make way for new plans in mind.
“Merry-Go-Round of Life” by Joe Hisaishi
This eccentric orchestral track from Howl’s Moving Castle feels like an adventure in the grassy hills. It’s the kind of song that helps you imagine big ideas, vivid scenes, or even create your movie.
3. Music for Fueling the Focus
This is the ideal music for studying, reading, or deep thinking. These songs provide clarity and flow without distraction.
“Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy
A peaceful composition that feels like you’re bathing in the moonlit sky. It promotes mindfulness, reduces stress, and provides better focus to quiet internal conflicts.
“Nuvole Bianche” by Ludovico Einaudi
This piece is gentle, emotional, and motivating, allowing good focus while easing lingering tension.
“Wii party – Nintendo lofi” by Tanoshi
This nostalgic, cozy remix features a playful vibe and a calming rhythm that helps relieve mental fatigue and alleviate overwhelming feelings.
“Sweden” by C418
This simple, ambient arrangement, originating from Minecraft, is ideal for maintaining calmness and focus. It helps you avoid distractions while studying and working on creative projects.
4. Energy Boosters That Charge Your Vibe
“Wake Me Up” by Avicii
(EDM)
This popular, electrifying anthem delivers an energizing beat like a ray of sunlight to the soul. It makes you feel alive, especially when you’re tired or unmotivated.
“Not GAME” by Tasuku Hantanaka
(International)
This hidden gem packs intense beats and an energetic vibe. Whenever you feel drained, this song pushes you to keep going, no matter how hard things get.
“By the Way” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers
(Rock)
This fast-paced rock track is full of energy and adrenaline. It helps you shake off frustration or low energy and gets you back on track.
“Finesse” by Bruno Mars
(Pop)
This smooth, funky track boosts confidence and energy, encouraging a positive and self-assuring feeling.
Whether you’re winding down after a long day, tackling homework, sparking creativity, or boosting your energy, music can shift your mindset and set your mood to whatever you desire. These songs can help your mental health and become a new, positive factor in your life. So, next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck or need to switch your vibe, throw on one of these tracks. You might be surprised by how one song can shift your mood and help you reconnect with yourself.
