Over the years, music has provided me with a space for community, pleasure, and healing. Sharing playlists with my people, traveling for concerts, hosting a radio show, getting to know new artists, and singing in the car all bring me a sense of calm, presence, and connection.
I’ve personally and vicariously experienced the healing that comes from engaging in an expressive art; these include, but are by no means limited to, painting, singing, writing, cooking, dancing, building, and theater. Being present in an activity helps us regulate our emotions; creative outlets that we enjoy help us to express the energy we feel internally.
2020 filled us with plenty of energy that needs release. I want to acknowledge that it has been particularly challenging to tap into self-compassion and presence at different points throughout this year.
As we close out 2020 and move into 2021, I invite you to engage in a creative activity that brings you presence and healing. In the spirit of connection, I created a mini playlist of songs that help me tap into self-compassion, empowerment, and acceptance. As you listen to the songs, engage in your own expressive art, and enter the new year, my hope is that you find some peace, presence, and compassion within yourself.
Put Your Records On · Corinne Bailey Rae
Borderline (An Ode to Self Care) · Solange ft. Q-Tip
Honey · Kehlani
Keep Ya Head Up · Tupac Shakur
Self Care · Louis the Child ft. COIN
Light On · Maggie Rogers
Innocent Party · Jetty Bones
Sarajevo · Watsky ft. Raquel Rodriguez
Gold Steps · Neck Deep
We Still Believe · Stick to Your Guns