Hi everyone. I'm a music composer, and I find that when I listen to music that I've composed, I often get extremely relaxed to the point of falling asleep. Even if I was wide awake a few minutes earlier. I've written hours of music from different genres, and if I want to take a nap, I just sit back and listen to my playlist. Within 2 or 3 songs, I'll be dozing off. The sound of my own music flows into my brain like a friend, recognizing its home of origin and putting me into an extremely pleasant state of mind.

So I was wondering, has anyone else experienced phenomena similar to this? Any other artists find that your own creations have a profound effect on you after you've completed them? This goes for musicians, singers, writers, painters, etc. What are some of the effects you've noticed by listening to/reading/viewing something wonderful that you've created?

This only applies to work that you are satisfied with. If you look at your work and cringe, or can't stop thinking about how you could change it, then it isn't a satisfying work of art. I'm talking about the effects of what you consider a completed work of art, or even a masterpiece.

I wouldn't classify what you describe as phenomena. I'd classify it as pretty normal. Im certain that a huge mass of people fall asleep easier with certain music playing whether they've made the music or just put in a cd.

Sounds a bit narcissistic.

First narcissism, like selfishness, is not always a bad thing. Both can be of value,individually and collectively.
Some of the finest works of art and scientific theories come from a narcissist place, in terms of solitary individuals, caring about their work(includes themselves) first first and foremost, especially over any social status quo.

Now the creative thing, yes, I have experienced what you are speaking of, both with songs and paintings. I think our creative projects are like giving birth to our children, in a sense. We keep the projects with us, adore and support them, and sometimes spur their growth into something greater.

My painting experience was one that continues to offer a calm effect, both in the finished works and the process. I got into abstract painting and began utilizing some zen approaches. The results were, well, zennish, and as they hang in my house, they contribute to a vibe that is calming. I have had comments from friends regarding this. The newfound(to me) process was one that continues to affect my approach and process with creativity. I first empty myself of intention and expectation, letting the process take over, and fully cultivating the moment, as many zen artists do. This not the only way to be creative, but for me it has had lasting results. I had a successful solo art gallery show last year, and some of the comments were "feeling the artist's state of mind" when viewing the works, which was calming and relaxing.

Peace,
spec