how music heals me

By Alejandra Serna

Ever since I could remember I've been surrounded by music. From parties, to my dad playing Salsas in the car, music has always been there. Whether I'm playing r&b in my headphones or simply listening to the faint pop music in the background of retail stores. Music has such a comforting presence that never fails to calm me down. Although it’s always been in my life, I’ve never noticed how much it helps me up until now.

Only recently have I come to acknowledge how important music is to me. I’ve noticed that when I don't have music I don’t have an outlet to express myself. Music is everything to me. A way for me to calm down but also to show my personality. The music I listen to allows people to have a glimpse at what my personality is. Without music I feel lost. 

Overtime, music became more than just ‘sounds’ to me. The lyrics from my favorite songs started to speak to me, especially the songs about enjoying life and being free. Music became an even bigger part of my life than it already was. More so when I would listen to my favorite artists instead of facing everything going on outside my bedroom. Suddenly, the world around me disappeared, my worries about school and growing up faded to the back of my mind; previously having been the only things I could think about.

Music has been there to support me, being my therapy through all the ups and downs in life. To drown out arguments and my own worries and lift my mood. But I don’t just listen to music when I'm sad, I play my favorite artists and different ranges of music to feel alive.

One of the best feelings in the world is walking to your seat at a concert, the excitement and joy is an experience that everyone needs to experience at least once in their life. Hearing the cheer from equally devoted fans all around you sends shivers down your spine. 

In fact, some of the best moments in my life have been at concerts. Or have happened because of music. I've met and bonded with people who share similar tastes with me. Even sharing memories we will never forget. For example, when I went to a KoRn and System of a Down concert in October of 2021, and Tomorrow X Together in May 2024.

One thing I love about my music taste is the diversity. How can I switch between Kpop, Metal, Rock, Rap, etc. throughout the day and love all genres equally. I like bonding with people over our shared music taste, making friends is easier when you can talk to people about common interests.

Music makes me feel free, I turn it on when I want to forget. One of the best feelings I’ve come to love is blasting music in my headphones. Letting my problems fade away. 

For The Warrior Times, This is Alejandra Serna.