The Mindful Mom

I recommend some beautiful classical music pieces that you can play for your little ones. My eldest daughter would hear my selection playing before I drove her to school and she would come into the kitchen and immediately begin to relax from an otherwise rushed morning. These selections are soothing, engaging, and perfect for creating a calming environment. Here are some of my favorites. They enhanced my ability to engage with the moment and be more mindful whether I was cooking. Just starting the day with my family, or working. You will experience impact on mood and attention. We tend to be absent minded when performing the day’s tasks but listening to soothing music together can enhance your activities together and impart a sense of mindful well being.

1. Johann Sebastian Bach – Goldberg Variations;

   – This hour-long piece was originally composed for an insomniac aristocrat. Its steady rhythm, flowing counterpoint, and comforting melodies make it ideal for both active days and (hopefully not too sleepless) nights.

2. Allegri – Miserere:

   – Allegri’s masterpiece features heavenly top Cs and a mix of full choir and plainchant rhythm. It’s a soothing choral piece that has stood the test of time and can provide warm reassurance for your kids.

3. Mozart – Piano Concertos:

   – Although the “Mozart Effect” research may be inconclusive by today’s standards, there’s no denying the beauty and power of Mozart’s music. His piano concertos, in particular, can engage the heart and mind. Try playing some of his delightful piano compositions for your little ones.

4. Lullabies by Brahms:

   – Johannes Brahms composed a famous lullaby known as “Wiegenlied” or “Cradle Song.” Its gentle melody and soothing lyrics have comforted generations of babies. Sing it or play a soft instrumental version for your baby.

5. Debussy – Clair de Lune:

   – Debussy’s “Clair de Lune” is a timeless piano piece that evokes a dreamy, moonlit atmosphere. Its delicate notes and flowing melody can create a serene ambiance for your children’s listening pleasure.

In addition I would play Sitar music by Ravi Shankar or Native American flutes and rain selections. Mindfulness is enhanced and a soothing sense of calm becomes associated with daily living when you add in the notes of warm and serene instrumental pieces.

Remember to pay close attention to your kids’ reactions to the music and adjust accordingly. Some kids will want lower volumes or only linking this music to certain activities. I usually played Mozart for them in the mornings and often outdoor. Adjust your musical selections by observing the atmosphere you are creating both around your children and inside them. I used to ask very directly how they were feeling when I played any given piece.

In addition, if you are able to enjoy the music, you’re sending a message to your kids as well. I would play my favorites right before an important task and visibly unwind and my kids learned from that.. For example, my older son would get very anxious on exam days and so we found music that actually engaged him. Even ten minutes of engagement with something relaxing changed his internal dialogue and feelings and he developed a tool for life. They absorb that the day is going to be good, that every moment can be converted to something soothing, and that we have more control over our atmosphere than we often believe. What a great way to empower them!