Recently, I had the chance to experience Jeff Gold’s “Simple Treasures—a soothing instrumental album that should be called a masterpiece of relaxation!

I first listened to it last Tuesday, while I was hurrying through my Hanukkah preparations. Between trying to cook a brisket, frost sugar cookies, set the table, and find missing candles for the Menorah, I was super stressed out! All day long I had been running, rushing, and worrying, yet within 5 minutes of hearing this incredible music, I was much calmer. I stopped all of my work, made a cup of tea, and sat at the kitchen table. I closed my eyes and took deep breaths, letting the music wash away my tension, and bring me to a better place.

“Simple Treasures” contains 12 amazing tracks:

*  A Song for Sydney

*  Prairie Song

*  First Snowfall

*  Walking Oz

*  I Do

*  Healing Pool

*  Eye Towards the Sea

*  Skating

*  Simple Treasures

*  Day’s End

*  Sweet Dreams

*  Spring Green

Until you listen to Jeff’s music personally, it’s hard to understand how healing and melodic it is! While I enjoyed the entire CD, my favorite was A Song for Sydney. The hour I spent listening to his unique blend of piano, flute, guitar, and strings was a true joy!

“Simple Treasures” would make a wonderful soundtrack for any quiet activity like meditation, yoga, Reiki, hypnotherapy, or prayer. (Like me, Jeff is Jewish and I can feel a definite Jewish thread/connection to his music. Listening to his songs while I pray enhances my spiritual awakening, and I would recommend this to everyone in the Jewish community!)

Another group that would greatly benefit from “Simple Treasures” are Special Needs children and their parents. As the uncle of a Special Needs nephew, Jeff has lovingly created music that can assist with their unique set of challenges. (I plan on sharing this with my friend who’s the mom of a son with ADHD and Autism. She leads an incredibly stressful life and needs a reminder to take it slow and breathe!)

To find out more about Jeff Gold and his amazing music—including free downloads!—check out his website.

Want a fun, free activity for the last night of Hanukkah? Print and customize these coloring pages from Hello Kids. There are 12 templates to choose from, all of which are adorable.