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Songs to Listen to When You’re Anxious

If you suffer from anxiety, music can be one of the most soothing ways to help create an atmosphere of calm. This list has songs that are perfect to listen to during a bout of anxiety, to help you feel better, sooner.

By Annie KielyPublished 7 years ago 5 min read
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Coping with anxiety can be a very difficult thing, and music can help keep your anxiety levels low throughout the day 

If you suffer from anxiety, you know that having great coping mechanisms is one of the best ways to feel your best. Music can be one of the most soothing ways to help ease your anxiety and create an atmosphere of calm. This list has songs that are perfect to listen to during a bout of anxiety, whether you need to be soothed, pumped up, or indulge your feelings for a while

"Breathe" by Anna Nalick is a favorite sing-along song for many people when they are feeling down, or anxious. The simple refrain of "just breathe" and "There's a light at each end of this tunnel, you shout" is the perfect reminder that all things are temporary, even pain.

Anyone who has anxiety knows that the way we breathe is much more important to how we are feeling than we realize. Sometimes, there is no way to get through a difficult time, or incident, without taking the time to just breathe.

"Chandelier" is the perfect choice for when you want to get energized and out of an anxious slump, rather than indulge in your anxiety.

If you tend to be hesitant as a result of your anxiety, refrains from "Chandelier" like "I'm gonna live like tomorrow doesn't exist" is the perfect reminder for you to get out of your head and start living more fearlessly. It doesn't hurt that it is almost impossible to avoid dancing to "Chandelier," which is another great way to snap yourself out of an anxious spell.

"Pure Shores" is the perfect song for people with anxiety to listen to, because it is so real. It talks about all of the excitement of setting a goal and building toward it; making something yours. What is so special about "Pure Shores" is that it shows the doubt, and the whole process behind identifying something to make you happy and moving toward it.

If you're suffering from anxiety, worrying that you won't be able to achieve a goal or get past a certain obstacle in your life, add this to your rotation and rest assured that you are not alone.

Shake it Off by Taylor Swift is the kind of catchy pop song that it can be easy to dismiss at first listen. But both the lyrics and the sound of this one can make you feel better if you're feeling down or anxious. In the lyrics, Swift admits to some very common criticisms of her life as a celebrity. Insulting views that she needs to cope with. Instead of believing the negatives, she focuses on her accomplishments and enduring belief that things will turn out as they should.

Even if you're tempted to dismiss this one, give it a try next time you're feeling anxious or overwhelmed. You might be surprised at how much better you feel!

"Roar" is the perfect song to listen to if you need to move from anxiety into ass-kicking. The lyrics and music are the perfect lift if you're feeling down, and on the edge of sinking deep into anxiety. Perry includes lyrics on her past anxiety, but focuses on her strength and ability to overcome. This song has been an anthem for many anxiety sufferers (and people struggling with illnesses of all kinds).

Sometimes, feeling less anxious is a matter of perspective, and changing your view from fear of what will happen, to determination to show everyone how amazing you can be.

So many Coldplay songs are perfect for riding out an anxious mood, but "Strawberry Swing" is one of the best of their songs to listen to when you're feeling anxious. The beautiful and nostalgic lyrics remind us of the people and things in life that truly matter, and even in spite of bad weather, we can find ways to feel OK.

"Strawberry Swing" is recommended by many people for relaxing and gaining perspective. If there is one song from Coldplay to add to your anti-anxiety playlist, "Strawberry Swing" is it.

Swim is the perfect song to play if you just need to give yourself a little encouragement to break through the anxiety. This is a great song for reminding yourself that any feelings of fear are temporary, and that you need to keep plodding through even if you are afraid.

Sometimes, this encouragement is exactly the kind of blind affirmation we have to hold on to in the midst of anxiety. Just to keep going and not let it overwhelm us.

"Unwritten" has remained a staple of radio stations around the world for years, with its catchy lyrics and upbeat music. While you might be tempted to dismiss this one as a meaningless pop-song, it is actually a great meditation on writer's block and getting past your fears.

If you have anxiety about the future, or about creating, you need to make "Unwritten" your anthem. It can be difficult to embrace the unknown, but keeping an eye to the potential of tomorrow and the adventures it can bring is a great way to minimize your anxiety.

"Watermark," written and performed by Enya is a primarily instrumental song that is instantly recognizable. With very brief and meditative lyrics, this song has been a choice for yogis and massage therapists around the world for reducing anxiety and tension.

Enya's music tends to be very relaxing overall, and if you enjoy this song you might want to check out more of her work to help with your anxiety.

In 2011, a study commissioned by Radox Spa found that "Weightless" by Marconi Union was the best song they found for soothing activity. Study participants showed a 65% reduction in their current anxiety, and an average of 35% lower anxiety than the average resting rate.

The study attributes the songs power to the rhythm, combination of instruments, and Buddhist chanting that is overlaid with the music. If you are an anxiety sufferer, the one song on this list you need to try is "Weightless."

If you suffer from anxiety, setting yourself up in a calm atmosphere can be key to helping yourself feel better, and music is a great way to set the mood. When you're feeling good, it can be a great idea to make yourself a playlist to run through when you are feeling anxious, so you don't even have to think about making yourself feel better. Experiment with your favorite music and you'll be surprised to find how much the right music can elevate your mood.

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About the Creator

Annie Kiely

Annie Kiely is a freelance writer, editor and researcher who lives in the 'burbs of Toronto with her pets and her partner. Annie is an advocate for wellness, mental health education, and literacy. She loves animals and gardening (and food).

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