Music A Distraction?

[Vinsanity]

Hi guys I'm a high-school student who recently got into self improvement. But one of the things I noticed is that whenever I do something like homework or working out, I like to listen to music. It helps me focus, but I feel like it distracts me from being mindful of what I am doing. Any thoughts?

[ALGUIMAR]

I used to struggle with this issue too. I thought that to be mindful on something I needed zero distractions. But what if music helps me focus and whats more important... helps me to enjoy it in a deeper level. I found out that in some activities like working out it really makes a huge difference, but in others like studying it can really distract you unless you're doing something mechanic. So that is completely up to you, every person is different so I just can offer you my insights. 

In any case I hope it helped you

[Woody]

Recently I was thinking about it too. A few years ago I was a very big rock and metal fan (however I still am) and I saw many concerts from the first row, I was really crazy and sometimes drunk. Now as I'm approaching life from a more spiritual point of view and this loud music and dancing (which is rather fighting in a metal concert) seems to be the opposite of stillness and enlightenment. Although during workout I think it can be good, if it is not too noisy and you still can concentrate on your excersise. As far as I know scientists says that gentle classical music can be helpful during studying.

[Guest]

@Woody Dancing is just movement and expression, and movement/expression is life. You can still dance, in fact, you probably should. Embrace life, don't get a wrong picture about enlightenment. A guy only sitting 24/7 in his cave, not doing anything and being completely apathetic. I enjoy a concert too every now and then if I love the band, like Avantasia and it only benefits my spirituality, because I don't refuse life. Basically it just boils down to doing what you love. Don't worry you will still get enlightened at some point, and then you will realize you can dance and listen to load music as long as you want...as long as you do it mindfully.

[Vinsanity]

Thanks for the input guys! I think I have a better understanding now. 

[Woody]

11 hours ago, The Son said:

@Woody Dancing is just movement and expression, and movement/expression is life. You can still dance, in fact, you probably should. Embrace life, don't get a wrong picture about enlightenment. A guy only sitting 24/7 in his cave, not doing anything and being completely apathetic. I enjoy a concert too every now and then if I love the band, like Avantasia and it only benefits my spirituality, because I don't refuse life. Basically it just boils down to doing what you love. Don't worry you will still get enlightened at some point, and then you will realize you can dance and listen to load music as long as you want...as long as you do it mindfully.

You're right. Although I am not a good dancer and I don't like dancing.. on metal concerts that dance is called "mosh" which is far from the expression of love and stillness. I really liked it though because it helps getting rid of stress and anger. Now maybe I'm too old for that and I just don't get too drunk so I don't feel like I want to be in a mosh.

Avantasia is an awesome band, mate. But that's a "calm" metal band, not like Pantera or Killswitch Engage, which is an other topic.

[Guest]

@Woody Yeah they are calm but their lyrics are very deep and profound, even selh-help themed, and the music is beautiful. It's still loud and fast