Growing up in New York City, I've always been surrounded by noise and constant stimulation. Navigating the city via buses and trains exposes me to a continuous barrage of sensory input, which fluctuates throughout the day. I often wonder how this relentless stimulation affects our mood and anxiety levels.

During my commutes between home and school, I usually listen to music to cope with the chaos. Despite the jarring sounds of train tracks and the hurried pace of entering and exiting stations, I gravitate towards reggae music. As a Jamaican, reggae holds a special place for me, influenced by my grandfather and father who often played it on the radio. This connection to reggae feels almost instinctive, especially while I'm on the move.

I’ve explored reggae music more deeply as a form of “temporary relief”. Jah Shaka, a renowned DJ born in Jamaica, based in London, has eloquently described the transformative power of reggae's frequencies. This music genre, known for its soothing qualities, has earned a global reputation for promoting peace and has been a source of solace for Jamaican people, particularly Rastas, during challenging times.

Inspired by the artists who make New York a vibrant hub, we are transforming Westbeth’s sanctuary into a sound sensation space. This new room will allow the community to create and experience harmonious sounds, providing a valuable resource and space for stress relief in the midst of the city's noise.