
Many of you will be aware that as well as my involvement with the in car audio industry, I am also an enthusiastic amateur music maker. I play a number of instruments, although my main one is guitar, which I teach in my spare time. I was recently asked to write a brief article for a local magazine on playing a musical instrument as therapy. Many folk have been struggling with isolation, boredom and stress throughout lockdown and have been casting around for things with which to occupy themselves. However, as I haven't been able to give face-to-face lessons and online lessons are just nowhere near as much fun. I therefore chose to extend the brief to include listening to music as a form of mindfulness. I have spent many happy/sad hours simply listening to music. I don't mean just having music on, but actually listening intensely. Sometimes, I get to the end of an album and listen to it again, particularly if it is very intricate. I find I can get completely absorbed by music and it definitely lifts my mood. This is especially the case when driving alone although, I am always careful to watch that boundary between listening intently and watching the road. During lockdown, I have listened to more music than ever. I find that with an open mind and a decent streaming service, there is endless inspiration out there. So, the next time you are feeling low or negative about the world and your part in it, go for a listen and a drive. What's that Sooty? your car doesn't sound very good? You know what to do!
See you next month, in the meantime, do take care.
Carl
Editor

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