There is a lot we can’t control at the moment. Which can feel a little like we’re on a rollercoaster ride that we didn’t choose to be on… Come to think of it, we’re not even sure how we got to the theme park! This month with your pal Franki (that’s me!) we’re going to be chatting a little bit about health and wellbeing (and music of course!). When I mention health related things like blood pressure, heart rate, stress hormones and brain chemistry what do you think of? I bet it’s not music!
Various studies have found that music can have many amazing health benefits! For example, music can lower blood pressure and heart rate, as well as decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Music also has the ability to improve mood by increasing feel good and energy boosting brain chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin and endorphins! All of these things combine to create a calming, uplifting effect.
Another thing that can have this same calming, uplifting effect is exercise, so why not throw on some tunes, get that body moving and get a double dose of the good stuff! Create a playlist of some of your favourite songs and go for a walk, a run, do some stretches, it doesn’t matter what you do as long as you listen to your tunes and move. Here’s an idea, put together a playlist with friends, join a video call and have a virtual dance party! And now that we can meet a friend outside, how about a mini dance party in the park or at the beach? Remember to stick to the rules but we definitely have a little more room to boogie now!
Below I’ve listed a few ideas of ‘pump it up’ kiwi tunes to add to your get moving playlist!
Electric Dream – Shapeshifter
My Delirium – Ladyhawke
Poi E – Patea Maori Club
Why Does Love Do This to Me? – The Exponents
Not Many – Scribe
I See Red – Split Enz
Can’t Get Enough – Supergroove
Kings & Queens – Brooke Fraser
I Got – Fast Crew
Black Box – Stan Walker
Sending love, sunshine and smiles your way! Hang in there! From your music mate, Franki.
Who am I? I’m Franki August, a local kiwi singer-songwriter and your resident pal on all things music. Find me on Instagram @frankiaugust and reach out and say hi! I love meeting new friends.
