Trapped in My Mind
This article is part of our Spring 2022 print issue. See the full, digital version of the issue here.
Music is arguably what makes the world go ‘round. After these trying past few years during the COVID-19 pandemic when we felt there was nowhere to turn, music was there for us as a therapeutic escape from reality. We all had that go-to song that could instantly help us feel better. The song “Trapped In My Mind” by Kid Cudi described what almost everyone was feeling: isolation, loneliness and standing in your own way, quite literally “trapping” yourself within your own mental roadblocks.
As we try to cleanse ourselves of these feelings from these last few years, it’s important to take into account the little moments that made us smile. Whether it was spending more time in nature, building relationships with the ones you love, exploring a new place or finding a new hobby, music can serve as not only a reminder of these times, but hope for the future and what’s to come.
Photo by Cameron Leslie
Different songs evoke different emotions, which is why we at The Edge have curated some playlists with our favorite songs that make us nostalgic for our cherished memories and future dreams.
UNDYING LOVE FOR NYC
Design by Olivia Parks
Imagine riding down the streets of New York City in a yellow taxi cab at night. You’re with your best friends. You look up through the rolled-down window and see the building lights glisten in the darkness. One of your more “rebellious” friends tilts her head back out the window to let her hair fly through the wind. You take a black and white photo to capture the moment. Then enter: your perfect NYC playlist.
CALIFORNIA DREAMING
It’s sunset. You’re driving in a retro red convertible along the California coast. Maybe you’re alone, or maybe there’s a love interest? You’re riding a high as you look out over the ocean that extends miles beyond the horizon. You feel the wind in your face and the salty smell of the ocean tickles your nose. This is your soundtrack for that moment.
Design by Olivia Parks
EUPHORIC
Design by Olivia Parks
One of the most underrated things about quarantine was the opportunity to take a step back from the everyday hustle and bustle and simply just relax. This playlist makes you feel like you’re floating or have been transported to another dimension. You’re in a haze, but you’re not in danger or feeling unsafe. You’re surprisingly calm, and your mind is free from all stress. If this sounds like something you need, do yourself a favor and have a listen.
Photo by Cameron Leslie
Kim Innes, a professor of epidemiology at West Virginia University’s School of Public Health, says that music can lift our moods, combat depression and ease pain. It can improve blood flow in ways similar to drugs that lower your cholesterol and it can decrease the levels of stress-related hormones. We as humans are hard-wired to respond to music. Music makes us feel. It provides meaning. It brings us together.