A Change Would Do You Good.

In light of the new year approaching, many of us are contemplating our New Year's Resolutions. This blogpost title, "a change would do you good" is from the song "A Change" by Sheryl Crow. The song speaks to how a "change" can be a positive thing and to be real with yourself and others.

I challenge you (and myself) to take some quiet, reflective time in the dawn of the new year to think about what you could change in your life. No one is perfect. Who wants perfection, anyway? But what about easier, more respectful, more balanced? Even if there is not a large, sweeping change that needs to happen in your life, perhaps even small thoughts, deeds, or words in what you do (or fail to do) can use a little tweaking. Just think about what little things you could do to be healthier, wiser, less stressed, improve relationships, make a small sacrifice for the betterment of another (or even a stranger), or get your taxes done early (ugh!). What is one aspect of your life, that if changed, would make the biggest difference for you and/or your loved ones?

What is the key to achieving these illusive things, these goals? We must find a solution that is exactly what we described: achievable.

Even if there is a large pressing issue, (like we all hear this time of year - losing weight), if you break it down into steps that are small enough to demonstrate progress to yourself or others, there is a better chance of success. Even something as small as thinking one positive thought about yourself and each member of your family each day (and maybe journaling about it) is something to cross off a checklist of larger objective areas. Make a plan, break it down, and reward yourself when you hit a (small) milestone. Additionally, isn't it more motivating if you can see progress? If a visual representation of your progress will motivate you, make a graph or a list you can dramatically scratch off the achieved items. If you achieve a small step, celebrate it! It makes a difference to acknowledge the positive (...or..."ac-cen-tu-ate the positive...").

A change would do you good. Why are you waiting?

Blessings for 2008. ~Mary

Lyric Analysis: "Beauty from Pain 1.1" by Superchic[k]

I would like to begin the post out on a positive note. With the specialization of music psychotherapy, the technique of lyric analysis is used quite frequently. Lyric analysis is just that: looking at the lyrics of a particular song, analyzing or studying the lyrics, and discussing and applying their relation to one's life. Most of us do this independently, without the guidance of a music therapist. Do you hear a song on the radio that you feel was written just for you, at that moment in your life? If so, you have identified with those lyrics and applied them to your life in some small way. Seems simple enough, right? Well, the music and lyrics can have an influential impact on someone in a counseling session. The emotion of the music may make a new connection and insight into themselves. The choice of music can be the catalyst for a critical moment of catharsis.

With that in mind, I would like to share one of my favorite albums, "Beauty from Pain 1.1" by Superchic[k]. This album is amazing (my opinion, of course!). It is evident that the songwriters have "done their own work" in terms of counseling and tackle important issues in each song. Most songs deal with issues of pain or what I would call "girl power" or the empowerment of women.

Song by song:

Anthem: This song is a sort of "ode" to girls who don't give up, a rally song for all the women who have been told "you can't." The lyrics speak to girls in traditionally male roles (girls with bruises and scars, lipstick and cleats). It has a driving rock / punk sound.
Beauty from Pain: A beautiful ballad with a haunting piano line discusses deep, penetrating pain, the glimmer of hope, and the questioning of "why." This is one of the few songs I have heard that truly conveys emotional pain and the struggle of day-to-day. It is real, heart-wrenching, and thought provoking.
Bowling Ball: "You need that boy like a bowling ball dropped on your head; and that means not at all." These lyrics from the chorus pretty much sum up the theme of the song: drop that no-good guy! This song makes me laugh, and well, sigh at the same time about how sometimes a girl needs to hear that she's wasting her time with a guy! It has an upbeat punk feel - very fun.
Courage: A song about body image, eating disorders, a secret life, and asking for help. A moving depiction of a soliloquy of a young girl in pain dealing with these issues. A message of hope. Listen to it here.
It's On: Another upbeat song about action, change, doing something positive. "no matter how you feel, it's what you do that matters it's your moment to be strong."
One Girl Revolution: A cross between punk, dance and metal with a great message about confidence. Chorus includes: "I'll be everything that I want to be I am confidence in insecurity I am a voice yet waiting to be heard." Great and fun.
Pure: With more of a pop feel, "Pure" can be interpreted with a Christian message (Superchic[k] used to be considered an exclusively Christian band, ya know). However, it can also be understood as overcoming stressors and anxieties of any kind in ones life "The rocks of life won't pull me down." Very positive. A great transition to relaxation strategies.
Stand in the Rain: One of the great new songs on this album, it speaks to the moments when everything seems to go wrong at the same moment, when all the bad things catch up with you at the same time. CHORUS: "So stand in the rain; Stand your ground; Stand up when it’s all crashing down; You stand through the pain; You won’t drown; And one day what’s lost can be found; You stand in the rain." A strong song musically to support the lyrics and message.
Suddenly: After all the singing of pain and hardship, this song discusses when things just click and "Suddenly" you are where you are supposed to be. I great reminder of when things "just work out they way they are supposed to" and to be patient.
We Live: You may have heard this song, I believe it is the theme music to "Brothers and Sisters" on ABC. The lyrics discuss that even in the midst of tragedy, we must live, love, forgive and never give up because each day is a gift. Beautiful theme song for life.
Wishes: Again, back to the punk feel, this last song talks about romantic relationships that didn't work out, broken dreams, growing up, and saying goodbye.

I encourage you to check out this CD if anything "spoke" to you in these songs. Go forth, listen, validate your feelings, and gain some insight!
~Blessings! Mary

That's What It's All About...

Welcome! I am very excited about the re-launch of my beloved blogsite!

This new format will allow for insights, reviews, and information sharing about music therapy, creative arts therapy, and related topics. I welcome other therapists or artists who wish to share information as a fellow blogger on this site. Please email me if you are interested.

I am hoping to provide information on the newest research, publications, music releases, and information that would be most helpful to you (even if that includes the best route to avoid the new i-64 highway shutdown happening in a mere 4 days!). Please email me with what you need to know.

Otherwise, blessings to you all, ENJOY!
~Mary