OPM Songs to Play if You Want to Pause and Take a Break

It’s a brand-new day. You get your daily caffeine fix, hoping to get pumped up as you tackle your looong list of tasks. You know you must tick off what’s written there, but, alas, motivation becomes elusive just when you need it most.

There are days when you feel like you’re at your absolute best. And then there are days like this. But if you’re feeling overwhelmed — burdened by stress and seemingly incapable of completing even just one item off your to-do list — take comfort in knowing that you’re not alone. In fact, four in 10 adults around the globe feel a lot of worry.

While music doesn’t always work like a magic trick that can instantly whisk those worries away, at the very least, it can serve as a comforting companion. And in celebration of World Mental Health Day, here’s a selection of Wishclusives to give you the respite you deserve.

Take a deep breath, let the world pause, and allow these songs to offer you a sense of calm.

“Reflection,” Ichika Nito and Clara Benin

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‍Don’t you worry ‘bout it too much
If the skies don’t soon clear up
No matter the weather I’ll be by your side
See the reflection in your eyes

In the OPM industry, Clara Benin has always been known for her mesmerizing vocals and introspective lyricism. In this unexpected collaboration, her musical prowess takes center stage alongside Ichika Nito’s dazzling guitar skills. Despite the song’s brevity, it remains a compelling invitation for listeners to embrace the present moment and find joy in being alive.

“Somber and Solemn,” Belle Mariano

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But under the waves
Is the quiet that I’ve tried to find
Now that I’m here, it feels nice

Life has its highs and lows. And in this track, multi-hyphenate Belle Mariano reminds everyone that it is during those lowest moments that one can profoundly appreciate the beauty of life.

“Somber and Solemn” was co-written by Mariano, together with Cesca, Trisha Denise, Jeremy G, and Rox Santos. It’s part of her debut EP of the same name. Like how the song imparts a message of persistence, the EP collectively embodies the artist’s mission to inspire young people to “never stop dreaming.”

“Magpahinga,” Ben&Ben

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Matatapos ang problema
Malapit na
Pero ‘di rin kasalanang magpahinga

One of the songs that helped Ben&Ben break into the scene is “Leaves.” The track talks about how lonesome, turbulent times are but a season in one’s life and that, eventually, “all will be alright in time.” This piece, while evoking the piano-driven lull of their early hit, sounds more mature: There’s a grown-up sorrow that lurks as the narrator battles bigger hurdles head-on. But in the middle of it all, a sense of resilience lingers. And for it to be preserved, the band sings of one vital necessity: rest.

“You’ll See Miracles,” KZ Tandingan

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And you’ll see miracles
Just open your eyes
You’ll see signs above the skies
If you come to believe
His love is just a prayer away
And you’ll see miracles
If you only believe

Sometimes, watching a soulful, bare-your-heart performance is all it takes to experience a cathartic moment — the kind of breather and miracle you need when the situation seems too bleak.

This video of KZ Tandingan is exactly like that. Bearing her ever-emotive vocals that give life to a Paul Hildawa-penned inspirational track, the song speaks about the power of prayers and believing in what God can do.

“Umaga,” The Juans

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Darating din ang umaga
Umagang puno ng pag-asa
Hinding-hindi ka na mag-iisa

Though this may sound trite, the golden truth remains: After the darkness comes the light of a fresh start. Tears will dry and the noise will subside. This is what The Juans so endearingly convey in their poignant Wish Music Awards performance of “Umaga.”

So, while things can get overwhelming, take a moment to pause and feel what you have to feel. Then, let songs like this rekindle the hope that when tomorrow comes, it’s going to be a brand-new day.

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