Okay, I admit it—I LOVE Christmas music. I’ve been known to play it in the middle of July, just because I required a fix. And I’ve been grieving because, several years ago, the bell tower on César Cheváz played holiday songs that I reveled in as I walked, but, after that year, I never heard them again.

This holiday season both my husband and I were searching for “pay the rent” jobs and looking toward a new year filled with large question marks. One day as we walked, the bell tower chimed the hour, and then—delight!—began to chime Christmas music. After that, we timed our walks so we would be near the tower when the music began. The throb of the music pulsed through our walking feet and the bell’s vibrations pulsed in our ears until it seemed our hearts pumped in rhythm to their insistent best. In a season of perplexity, the bells rang out beauty, clarity, and harmony.

What music nourishes you? This month, gift yourself with its listening. Find a time free of distractions, choose a comfortable position (on a squishy couch, a firm mattress, or yoga-style on the grass) and give yourself up to the music. Listen again and again, if you like. The time is well spent.