Keeping Sane In These Intense Times ( LOH #232)

I think it's fair to say, that I, along with many others have been feeling pretty overwhelmed these past few years. On top of what happens in our day to day lives, we have been trying to adapt to what has been unfolding around the world. It's been crazy intense these last few years. Even without any of that, my life can get intense at times. I imagine many solo parents feel that way. I have a lot to juggle, most of the time. Trying my best to balance, parenting and work, whilst maintaining our family home.

So yes I am no stranger to stress, to feeling stretched, pulled in many different directions. It's just how my life is, it doesn't help, that I am not very good at making things easy for myself. But, I have also become pretty good at letting go, after I have had time to process and sometimes freaking out a little, whilst at other times I can just take a deep breath and let it all go.

For those times that are difficult, when I feel especially overwhelmed, one of the things I turn to, is Music. (I have written so much on here already about nature and how it is my sanctuary, today I wanted to write about something else.)

Oh Music. There is so much amazing music out there, music to suit every mood, music to help you through every stage of your life. There is not much that Nina Simone can't take the edge off, of. You can feel her pain in her voice, as she releases it all out into the world through her music. Transforming it, just listen to "Ain't got no, I got life" and you'll understand what I mean. Then there is "Don't let me be misunderstand." I don't know about you, but when I sing along to Nina, I'm not quiet about it and why should I be, her words need to be heard, so I sing nice and loud.

The same can be said for the wonderful Etta James, who can easily snap me out of any mood. Take " At Last" for example or " No Slave". I get swept up by her. Singing along with her, well it gives me all the feels and the wonderful band in the background, getting me moving. I can't help it. That is the power of music.

Music, just makes life easier.

My go to, especially when I am feeling down, is Alex Serra. His music is medicine to me. Getting to hear him and Totidub live, twice, was such a gift. Both in intimate settings, where I also got to chat with both of them afterwards. His voice, the music, it really stirs something deep within me and I love to move my body to their music. To really slow down and feel every movement, express every feeling.

Music, is my gateway in to dancing and dancing has always been such powerful medicine for me. Ever since I was a child, I have been able to switch off from the outside world and connect more deeply with myself. Whilst also feeling very connected with the world, but purely on an energetic level. Which is really what matters the most, to me anyway.

Music and dancing have really helped me to move through the most difficult times in my life.

This is my response, to the following question from @cautiva-30, as a part of the Ladies of Hive Community Contest.

There are states of mind that arise from our way of facing what happens to us, either with resistance or acceptance. How do you face the difficulties in life? Identify your mood here.