Music is very important to me... I find there is a song for every mood, whether it be happy, sad, anxious, angry etc.

I think I agree with prefabsprout that it helps connect you to your emotions, either complimenting the good ones, or working through them if they are negative ones.

It's interesting you should mention Christmas carols. We make a point to listen to them whilst a) putting up the Christmas tree & b) opening presents on Christmas day every year.

Just like yourself, it transports me back to all those happy childhood memories when I didn't have a care in the world. Perhaps one of many reasons why it is my favourite time of year.

I wouldn't listen to them at any other time of year, but it's great they help you.

I have a few go to artists or songs that I use when I am anxious. Outwith that, I go through phases but as I alluded to above they are often tied into my general mood at the time.