Can classical music truly change our lives? Writer Clemency Burton-Hill believes it can — and her book A Year of Wonder is a testament to that belief. Based on her personal experience, she argues that spending just a few minutes each day listening to music can transform our mental well-being and shift the way we see the world.

Music has always been a constant companion to humankind — created, shared, and passed down from generation to generation. Think of mixtapes made by young lovers, songs sung beside fires in cold countries, or the timeless musical gatherings in South Asia. Music has always served as a medium for learning, connection, and emotional expression.

Yet in the rush of modern life, many of us have lost touch with the simple, conscious act of truly listening to music.

It’s no surprise that conversations about mental health have become more urgent in today’s world. Studies show that regular self-care has measurable benefits for emotional resilience. For many, this includes meditation, workouts, or mindfulness routines — but maintaining those habits consistently can be a challenge.

Burton-Hill herself once turned to fitness for comfort, but like many, found it hard to sustain. It was only when she turned to classical music that she experienced a real, lasting shift. Just a few minutes a day — listening to carefully selected classical pieces — brought a newfound sense of calm and grounding.

At one point, Burton-Hill was juggling motherhood, freelancing, and the invisible pressure to “hold it all together.” Inside, she was breaking down. Nothing seemed to bring relief — until music entered the picture.

She began starting each day with one piece of classical music. Rather than mindlessly scrolling through social media during her morning commute, she put on her headphones and let music fill her mind. That small change reshaped her mornings — and eventually, her entire day.

Some might hear her story and dismiss it as romanticized or impractical. Others may worry that classical music is too complex, too “serious,” or even boring. But the truth is: this kind of music can reach deep into the heart, stirring emotions you didn’t know were there. It can ground you, quiet your thoughts, and bring a kind of peace that lingers long after the music ends.

And no — you don’t need to “understand” classical music to benefit from it. All you need is the ability to listen. Whether you’re walking, cooking, commuting, or preparing for sleep, classical music can fit naturally into your life.

At its core, we all need anchors — small, comforting rituals that help us navigate the noise of everyday life. Classical music can be one of them. Just a few minutes a day might not seem like much, but it could be the start of a calmer, more mindful you.

Start your morning with music. It might just change your day — or even your life.