Assessment
Make a Playlist
Create a go-to collection that matches your mood and activity
svetikd/Getty Images
Quick Win
Harness the power of music to boost energy, ease stress or lift your mood. Technology makes it easy.
Try This Today
- Define your vibe. Do you want a playlist that relaxes you, powers you up for a walk, sparks living room dance parties or just makes you happy? Pick one theme to start with.
- Plan your lineup. Streaming services, like Spotify or Pandora, make it easy to find old favorites and explore new music.
- Harness the power of digital. That mixed tape effect that used to take hours — or was it days — now takes next to no time. Creating a playlist on your phone is a snap. (If you get stuck, ask a tech-savvy friend.)
More Ways to Benefit
- Related Benefit 1
- Related Benefit 2
- Related Benefit 3
- Related Benefit 4
- Related Benefit 5
Why
You probably know from experience that listening to music can put a smile on your face, help you relax and spark meaningful memories. Scientists have delved into these and other ways that music can affect our brains and enhance our lives. Research suggests that music stimulates many areas of the brain and may help enhance well-being, ease stress and improve mood, according to a report from the Global Council on Brain Health, “Music on Our Minds.”
AARP NEWSLETTERS
Get the Staying Sharp newsletter
Sign up for the latest on brain health, featuring articles, activities, recipes, games and more!
Benefits Recommended For You
You’ve reached content that’s exclusive to AARP members.
To continue, you’ll need to become an AARP member. Join now, and you’ll have access to all the great content and features in Staying Sharp, plus more AARP member benefits.
Already a Member? Login
More From Staying Sharp
Pack the Perfect Suitcase
Ease travel stress with a luggage-prep session
Commit By Building a ‘Memory Palace’
This ancient brain-training technique has shown to be effective
Be a Critical Thinker
Turn an otherwise passive activity like watching TV into a mental workout