jazz and my mental health

I’ve been listening to music regularly since I had gotten my first walkman in my childhood. I had always been a boring mainstream pop person. Before the internet and mobile phones I listened to music for long commutes. But I think this is the first time in my life I am listening to music – specifically jazz – at every opportunity. I can listen to it while reading or writing because I listen to non-vocal jazz. In fact, I think it helps me focus more on these cerebral activities because it puts my mind in some sonic bubble.

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Listening to jazz: it soothes my brain. I don’t really understand why. Is it because the brain needs to focus on the music and hence it stops existing in chaos? Is it because the brain has a primal connection to music? Is it the invisible math that inherently exists in music?

Same for me, but lately, it's been punk music. Specifically, upbeat pop punk music with optimistic lyrics.

Further, I'm getting more aware of what music works for me in different contexts. When I'm doing computer work¹, I need music that's more like jazz or lo-fi. When I'm doing housework, punk is the ticket. When I am lifting weights, I need aggressive rap.

Also appreciate the recommendation for "This Is Your Brain On Music", gonna put that book in the queue!