Three Ways to Celebrate International Music Day

Oct. 1 is International Music Day, and I want to encourage you to experience music for what it truly is—a force that can reduce stress, lift spirits, and connect people across cultures.

International Music Day celebrates the world’s diverse musical traditions and music’s ability to advance peace, friendship, and mutual appreciation. As a lifelong musician who plays guitar and sings, I think the day offers a simple invitation: slow down, listen, and share music with a friend.

Music is medicine for the soul. It can meet us where we are emotionally, help us reset, and bring people together even when they’re from different backgrounds or languages.

Why Music Is Personal to Me

In my book, All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony, I write about how music filled my childhood home and became my passion. My parents loved music so much that they bought a piano before they could afford a car. I grew up singing, playing instruments, and dreaming of performing on stage.

When music comes from the heart, the connection between the musician and the audience is honest and powerful. Music speaks to the soul like nothing else can. It has transformed my life.

What the Research Shows

Research points to two clear benefits of making music part of daily life.

1. Music can help regulate stress and emotion. A review of 47 studies involving 2,747 people found that music therapy can significantly reduce physical and emotional stress. Research also suggests that listening to music can calm the body and help people manage difficult emotions.
2. Music can strengthen human connection. Research on music and social bonding indicates that listening, singing, and making music together can encourage shared emotion, coordination and a stronger sense of belonging.
   

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Three Ways to Celebrate International Music Day

1. Listen beyond your usual playlist. Choose a genre, artist or musical tradition from another culture. Give it your full attention and learn something about the people and history behind it.
2. Experience music with other people. Attend a local concert, school performance, community event or open-mic night. Live music creates a shared experience that a solo playlist cannot fully duplicate.
3. Share a song that matters to you. Send a favorite tune to a friend or family member and share why it matters. Then ask them to send one back. A simple exchange can start a meaningful conversation and introduce both of you to something new.

Let Music Bring a Little More Harmony

You don’t need to be a professional musician to feel music’s power. Sing, play, listen or share a song.

On Oct. 1, let music help you find a little more peace within yourself and a little more harmony with the people around you.

I shared a version of this article in a news release on October 1, 2026. USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and wellness products, has long recognized the importance of social wellness in building a successful business. Since its founding in 1992, USANA has focused on clear, concise communication to build trust with its customers and distributors in 25 countries. For more information about USANA Health Sciences and its dedication to promoting health, wellness, and entrepreneurial success, visit USANA.com.